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SELECTIONS 



FROM THE 



LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS 



OF 



WILLIAM GROVER ; 



\\ 



PRECEDED BY 



A BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICE OF HIS LIFE. 






\ 



" Be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith 
and patience inherit the promises." — Heb* vi. 12. 



THOMAS KITE, 64, WALNUT STREET. 

1831. 




*=j!.i 



^3 A : 






Our late friend William Grover, was so 
justly esteemed in our religious Society, that it 
has been thought the following Selection from 
his Letters and Papers would be acceptable to his 
friends. They may instructively revive the recol- 
lection of his Christian labours and example 
amongst us ; and of his earnest solicitude for the 
preservation of his friends from all that is evil, 
and for their groicth in true piety. 

J. F. 

Tottenham, 8th month, 1828. 






CONTENTS. 



CHAP. rAGE ' 

I. Biographical Memoir of William Grover , , 7 
II. Meditations and Reflections 19 

III. Letters and Papers relating to the Character 

and Principles of our religious Society . . 31 

IV. Letters and other Papers addressed to the 

Youth 40 

V. Extracts of Letters written from the year 1800 

to 1811-f with some other papers . ... 51 

VI. Extracts of Letters written from the year 

1812 to 1819 68 

VII. Extracts of Letters written from the year 1820 

to 1823 ,.,... 87 

VIII. Extracts from Letters written in the years 

1824 and 1825 94 









SELECTIONS, &c. 



CHAP. l. 

BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR OF WILLIAM GROVER. 

William Grover, the son of William and Elizabeth 
Grover, was born at Brighthelmstone in Sussex, the 
15th of the 11th month, 1752. Very few particulars 
are known of his early life. After leaving school, he 
was placed as an apprentice with Edmund Rack, a 
Friend, who was a retail country shopkeeper, at Bard- 
field in Essex. Soon after the expiration of the term, 
he engaged himself as an assistant to Samuel Day, who 
was also a member of our religious society, and in a si- 
milar business, and who lived at Stansted Mount-Fitch- 
et, in the same county. After serving him with dili- 
gence and integrity for several years, he became a part- 
ner in the concern, and resided there during the re- 
mainder of his life. He inherited some patrimonial 
property, his father having died when he was youno- ; 
but, at the same time, he found it necessary to pursue 
his engagements in business, and was esteemed an up- 
right tradesman, of kind and respectful manners ; one 
who was careful, in all things, to act as becomes a 
member of our religious society. He continued in 
trade until within a few years of his decease ; and 
though diligent in attending to these, the necessary 
cares of life, he was not engrossed with them : posses- 



C" 



8 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

sing a well-regulated and pious mind, he may be said 
to have pursued the concerns of time with eternity 
steadily in view. 

In the year 1786, he married Isabel Weatherald, of 
Wensleydale, in the north-western parts of Yorkshire, 
who has survived him ; and in their union, for nearly 
forty years, which was a source of mutual comfort and 
happiness, he proved himself a truly-affectionate hus- 
band; uniformly evincing, under every circumstance, 
the greatest tenderness and sympathy. 

The subject of this memoir, was one who, from early 
life, was of a thoughtful turn of mind, and showed a 
strong attachment to the principles and testimonies of 
Friends. As he advanced in years, he submitted to 
the humbling, refining operations of divine grace ; and, 
through continued watchfulness and obedience to the 
pointings of duty, he attained to that experience and 
stability in the truth, of which his conduct and religi- 
ous usefulness afterwards gave abundant proof. A de- 
scription of some parts of his religious character, is ap- 
propriately given in the following extracts, from a me- 
morial concerning him, issued by the Friends of Thax- 
ted monthly meeting, of which he was a member. 

" It is not our intention to extol the character of the 
deceased, as a man, estimable as he was, in the various 
relations of life ; but to exhibit his Christian virtues, 
and ascribe, as he did, all excellency to the power of 
divine grace, mercifully granted to mankind, for their 
salvation, through the mediation of the blessed Re- 
deemer, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The rec- 
titude of his conduct, in the discharge of his moral and 
religious duties, his humility, meekness, and dedication 
to the cause of truth, were all fruits of faith in the 
means thus graciously afforded. 

6i He was very exemplary in the fulfilment of his du- 
ty to his Maker, by a constant attendance of religious 
meetings, when of ability ; in which his solid deport- 






OF WILLIAM GROVER. 9 

merit indicated great reverence of spirit, and fervency 
of desire to gain access to the Fountain of all Good ; ^ 
and, on these occasions, we believe that his mind was 
often enriched with the incomes of divine love and 
peace. 

" He was a great lover of retirement and meditation. 
The frequent reading of the Holy Scriptures was also 
a source of instruction and comfort to him ; and this 
practice he was often tenderly engaged to recommend 
to others, as one of the means by which they might be 
strengthened and encouraged to advance in the Chris- 
tian path. 

" The views he took of himself were humble, whilst 
his estimate of the true Christian character was a highly 
exalted one. Hence arose great vigilance and circum- 
spection, that no part of his demeanor should dishonour 
the cause he so greatly valued and loved. This care 
was manifested in all his conduct ; and evidently so, 
in transacting the affairs of the church, in which his 
judgment w T as clear, and his language persuasive ; ten- 
ding much to encourage friends in the support of the 
discipline, in the executive part of which he very rare- 
ly excused himself from service ; having a great care 
for the prosperity of truth, and that his fellow-profes- 
sors might be faithful in our testimonies, and consistent 
in all their conduct, endeavouring to keep the unity of 
the spirit in the bond of peace. 

" Perhaps few have been so much favoured with the 
prevalence of love : it seemed to be the constant cloth- 
i ng of his mind, and was evinced towards all classes of 
society. The youth, especially, were the objects of his 
tender solicitude; for whose early attention to the re- 
proofs of instruction, and for their growth and estab- 
lishment in the Truth, he felt an unremitting con- 
cern." 

His important services in our Yearly Meeting, and 
his communications to his friends, will be long remenv 



• 



10 



BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 



bered. He often spoke of the comfort which he deriv- 
ed from reflecting on the goodness, and mercy, and lo- 
ving-kindness of our Heavenly Father ; inviting others, 
and particularly his younger friends, to seek to live un- 
der the influence of his love. His remarks were clear, 
comprehensive, and concise; and the precious influ- 
ence which they produced, was often, in a remarkable 
degree, to be felt, after the conclusion of them. 

He was a willing labourer in the church of Christ — 
an elder worthy of double honour; doing what his 
hands found to do with a cheerful heart, as one serving 
a good and gracious Master, and thus forcibly recom- 
mending the principles he professed. Highly valuing 
the care which our Christian discipline provides, and 
manifesting a deep concern for its being rightly and 
impartially exercised, he at the same time discovered 
much caution and tenderness in cases of delinquency, 
cherishing feelings of love and compassion, when judg- 
ing of the errors and weaknesses of others. He was 
very anxious that all the meetings, established for 
transacting the affairs of our society, should be held un- 
der the influence of Christian love, and in the fear of 
the Lord; being convinced that, were this the case, 
they would often be times of solid instruction. 

Whilst he was a firm believer in the immediate 
teachings of the Holy Spirit, he was diffident in speak- 
ing of his own experience; and though well persuaded 
that our religious principles lead to great spirituality, 
he was very cautious of judging others, or deciding for 
them. His desire was, that all might be drawn in love 
to seek after the guidance of that wisdom which Com- 
eth from above, and to see the beauty and excellency 
of the truth as it is in Jesus. Believing, as he did, that 
our predecessors had been called to uphold a pure and 
perfect standard of Christian doctrine, he was deeply 
solicitous that this might in no way be lowered by 
Friends of the present day ; and they as individuals, 
and the Society as a body, might endeavour so to act, 




OF WILLIAM GR0VER. 11 

as to bring others to see and to acknowledge the con- 
sistency of our profession with the gospel dispensation. 

His general appearance was meek and grave, exhi- 
biting a bright example of a religious character ; an 
habitual gratitude, and filial fear of God, marking his 
life and demeanor. He behaved with great kindness 
and courtesy to all ; at the same time maintaining the 
dignity of a disciple of Christ, so that his deportment 
commanded esteem and deference. 

Our dear and honoured friend was particularly 
pleased with the society of young persons ; and to ma- 
ny of this dass he was endeared by the sweetness and 
affability of his manners, conversing with them in a way 
which secured their confidence and esteem. He felt 
tender solicitude for them, in thinking of the tempta- 
tions to which they were peculiarly exposed ; and whe- 
ther any hints which he offered to these, were design- 
ed to encourage them to persevere in the right way of 
the Lord, or to check the early appearance of a de- 
parture from Christian simplicity, they were expressed 
with so much love, that they found a ready entrance 
into the heart. Highly valuing the approved writings 
of our Society, he often recommended them to the at- 
tention of those in early life. He promoted also their 
perusal of works of literature and useful information ; 
but saw a danger in the young and inexperienced en- 
tering much into the religious opinions of others. Yet 
he was far from being illiberal in his views, often grate- 
fully acknowledging his belief, that sects and distinctions 
are lost in the divine sight. 

William Grover appeared to think unkindly of no 
one ; but, when obliged to censure the conduct of any, 
he did it with great feeling and compassion. At the 
same time, there was a quick perception of what was 
wrong, and it was not allowed to pass unreproved. He 
had a strong objection to hearing the absent slightly 
spoken of, or their faults made the topic of conversa- 
tion. On these occasions he would observe silence, ox 

b * 



12 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

remind the company to be careful in their remarks on 
others, lest they should unguardedly injure the charac- 
ter of their friends ; being himself careful not to make 
comparisons. He was of a cheerful, contented dispo- 
sition, and considered it right to derive pleasure and 
gratification from temporal things, as blessings from the 
hand of an Almighty Benefactor ; provided they were 
kept in subordination to the great purpose of life, and 
not suffered to engross too much of the time and affec- 
tions. He met the vicissitudes of life with calmness, 
and was careful not to suffer cross occurrences to dis- 
compose his mind, or to draw him into the use of impa- 
tient expressions. 

The remembrance of his absent friends was frequent 
and lively, and he evinced a warm affection for those 
whom he had loved and esteemed in his youth. He 
seldom forgot the afflicted, whether rich or poor. To 
those of the latter class he was kind and considerate, 
relieving their wants, often visiting them in their dwel- 
lings, when he would enter into conversation in a way 
adapted to them, and peculiar to himself; and frequent- 
ly, in the retired circle of his own family, would speak 
of and commiserate the condition of those who had re- 
ceived fewer blessings than himself, or who had had a 
greater portion of affliction or suffering. 

He was a man of great punctuality and order in the 
daily transactions of life, seldom deferring until the mor- 
row the work of the day ; steady and diligent in what 
he undertook, and a good economist of time. Few were 
aware of the extent of his usefulness in cases of a pri- 
vate nature, among his neighbours. To these he was 
free of access on all occasions ; and much of his time 
was employed in their service. Possessing an intelli- 
gent mind and a clear judgment, he was often consult- 
ed ; and his assistance was frequently solicited to settle 
little differences. He entered into such cases with great 
deliberation ; his decisions were not hastily formed, and 
they were mostly well received. y*. 






OF WILLIAM GROVER. 13 

When the Auxiliary Bible Society was formed in 
that part of the county of Essex in which he resided, 
he readily united in the support of it, and took an ac- 
tive part in investigating the want of the Scriptures 
among his poorer neighbours. He was a diligent mem- 
ber of the committee until the time of his illness, and 
felt a lively interest in the circulation of the Scriptures 
both at home and abroad. At the same time, he was 
anxious that the concerns of this society might be con- 
ducted under the influence of those feelings, andinthat 
temper of mind, to which the Sacred Writings bear 
testimony ; and, whilst believing, as he did, in the di- 
vine authority of Holy Scripture, he was very desirous 
that these records should be properly designated, and 
that men should not confound the possession and distri- 
bution of the Bible, and the mere knowledge of its con- 
tents, with the partaking of those living waters which 
flow immediately from Christ, the fountain of life — of 
that bread which cometh down from heaven, and 
which, when received with a lively, operative faith, 
enables us to work out the salvation of the soul with 
fear and trembling. 

His friends had ample evidence of his being a firm 
believer in the essential doctrines of the Gospel. In a 
memorandum left behind him, he says ; " I believe it is 
consistent with the genuine principles of Friends, that 
all the communications of the mercy, love, power, and 
goodness of God to his creature man, are in, by, and 
through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and no oth- 
erwise, and in this belief lam thankful to live and unite." 

In a letter, written in the eleventh month, 1823, af- 
ter alluding, in terms of strong disapprobation, to the 
views of one whose sentiments were decidedly contrary 
to those of our society, "on a point of such supreme im- 
portance as the divine nature of our blessed Lord and 
Saviour Jesus Christ," he proceeds ; " Can I close this 
subject better, than with the following quotation from 
a recently, published pamphlet, in which the writer, 



14 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

when speaking of Christ, says : < What encouragement 
and comfort is there in the contemplation of his charac- 
ter and offices, both as prophetically indicated, and 
evangelically displayed, from the first and most ob- 
scure, to the last and most comprehensive and expres- 
sive: viz. The Bruiser of the Serpent's head; Imman- 
uel, God with us ; the Lord our righteousness ; the Child 
born; the Son given, upon whose shoulders the govern- 
ment of his people is for ever to be ; whose name should 
be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the 
Everlasting Father, and the Prince of Peace ; the root 
and the offspring of David ; the bright and morning 
Star ; the Son of Man ; the Son and Lamb of God, who 
taketh away the sins of the world ! who hath loved us, 
and washed us in his blood."* 

William Grover possessed a sound constitution, and 
enjoyed remarkably good health, until within a few 
months of his death." On the 16th of 5th month, 1825, 
he left home early in the morning, to attend the Year- 
ly Meeting, from which he had been very seldom ab- 
sent for nearly forty years. He arrived in London in 
time for the first sitting of the meeting of ministers and 
elders, and acted as an assistant to the clerk ; an office 
which he had for some time acceptably filled, and 
which he resigned at the close of that sitting. With 
his accustomed alacrity and interest in the concerns of 
the society, he entered, throughout the day, into the 
proceedings of the meeting. Towards the evening he 
felt unwell, and, in the course of the night was so alar- 
mingly ill, that his wife was sent for early the following 
morning. His disorder was a very painful one ; and, 
for several days, his life was considered to be in great 
danger. His medical attendants attributed his restora- 
tion to health, so far as it took place, to the serenity 
and humble resignation with which he bore his suffer- 



* Mary Jesup's Address to Friends. 



OF WILLIAM GR0VER. 15 

ings, as much as to the means which were em- 
ployed. 

The following memorandum, written in London, 
on the occasion of this illness, was found among his 
papers. 

" This has been a remarkable visitation, such an one 
as I never knew ; except that of the small pox, more 
than forty years ago, may be at all compared with it. 
I might be said to be attacked very unexpectedly, and 
in a lonely condition ; but help and comfort, as to out- 
ward accommodation, sprang up remarkably ; and I 
think it might be said, that every requisite was sup- 
plied. As to the most important part, it seemed to 
have a great effect in breaking the mind off from this 
world, and exciting earnest desires for a preparation 
and fitness to enter into rest and peace everlasting. 

" One feature was very striking : the kind, affection- 
ate interest of Friends respecting me and my case, w T as 
indeed beyond what it would seem proper to record. 
But, at the same time, perhaps at scarce any period 
have I so feelingly and clearly seen my own unworthi- 
ness and insignificance, or so feelingly prized a state of 
littleness and humble reduction ; so that, like a little 
babe, I might be permitted, in simplicity and perfect 
innocence, to draw nourishment in quietness from the 
breast of ever enduring and inexhaustible consola- 
tion." 

In a letter to two of his intimate friends, he re- 
marks ; 

" I am desirous (I hope with a degree of humble 
gratitude) of informing you, that, within three or four 
days, considerable improvement in my health has ta- 
ken place ; and, whilst I am so abundantly sensible, 
from recent past experience, of the uncertainty of the 
things of time, yet I wish duly to appreciate this rich 
favour, permitted to a poor traveller through the che- 
quered vale of time." 

Towards the end of the sixth month, he so far reco- 



16 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

vered, as to be able to return home, on which occasion 
he made the following memorandum. 

1825.— 7 mo. 13. " Being permitted, on the 30th 
ult. in company with my dear wife, cousin Elizabeth 
Glaisyer, and John Hooper, to reach home in safety, I 
am aware it is my duty, not only as a child, to crave 
divine consolation, but also to watch the openings and 
presentations of duty which may be vouchsafed, how- 
ever small ; so that the talent entrusted may not be 
buried under the feelings of feebleness, or any thing 
else." 

In two letters to his friends, not long afterwards, he 
thus alludes to his illness: • 

1825. — 8 mo. 7. " We can see but little before us ; 
and what a favour it is, when circumstances arise, to 
be enabled to meet them with prudence and peaceful 
resignation. This illness may be said to be a proof that 
we are not our own keepers, but poor, dependent crea- 
tures. Oh ! that we may have light in our dwelling 
and on our path ; and, through boundless mercy, peace 
within our borders." 

8 mo. 26. " Respecting resignation, how just are 
thy remarks, that our wishes as well as our works 
should at all times harmonize with the divine will : in- 
deed, our study should be, to be circumscribed there- 
by ; but this is no light matter, but a high and most 
precious attainment. Do not thy remarks, however, 
beg two most interesting questions ; namely, 'the day's 
work accomplished, and the expected consequent re- 
ward V also, ' the time arrived for dissolving every ten- 
der, earthly tie V With awfulness and reverence these 
may be left in the holy, dispensing hand of Him who 
doeth all things well ; whilst we, in grateful, humble, 
sensibility of the value of the present precious blessings, 
manifest our due estimation of them, by neglecting no 
proper means to secure their continuance, in due and 
filial submission, all the while, to his infinite wisdom, 
goodness, and mercy." 



OP WILLIAM GR0VEE. 17 

As the health of William Grover improved a little 
after his return home, his friends cherished the pleasing 
hope that his valuable life would be lengthened, and 
that they should be permitted longer to partake of the 
instruction to be derived from his bright example and 
Christian counsel. But He who ordereth all in perfect 
wisdom, and who will graciously supply the spiritual 
need of those who look in faith unto Him, saw meet to 
terminate the trials of this his faithful servant, and to 
admit him, as there is every reason to believe, to the 
participation of that peace and joy which are reserved 
for the righteous in the life which is to come. 

" The expressions of a religious nature, that our late 
dear friend uttered towards the close of life, were not 
numerous ; but they all partook of that humble, yet 
confiding and peaceful character, that distinguished him 
when in health, and bespoke a mind looking towards 
heaven, of which, he said, he had 6 had a pleasant view, 
particularly of late ;' and that he was ' favoured to feel 
very little condemnation.' At different times he thus 
expressed himself: 'The prevailing desire of my mind 
has been, for many years, that I might close in peace. 
I have had many blessings, many temptations, and ma- 
ny trials in my time ; but have been mercifully helped 
through them.' At one time, evidently under great 
tenderness of spirit, he observed, ' The shadow of divine 
mercy is very broad ;' and at another, when convers- 
ing about his illness, he said, ' It is a source of great con- 
solation to know, that He who formed us is near.' 

"In the afternoon of the day preceding his decease, 
he expressed himself to the following effect : ' There is 
nothing so precious, whether in youth or in age, sick- 
ness or health, as a sense of the divine presence and 
love. I have had great cause thankfully to believe, 
that the protecting arm of kind Providence has been 
with me all my life long, from my youth up ;' and, after 
a pause, added, ' It is my greatest desire that my sun, 
which now seems nearly set, may go down in brightness, 






18 BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR 

without a cloud ; relying only upon the goodness of the 
Almighty, who can change a life of suffering for one of 
comfort and endless happiness — who can make a death- 
bed as a bed of roses. Yea, I bless thy holy name, thy 
presence and love can make a death bed as a bed of 
roses.' Afterwards he said, in nearly these words ; 
' My life seems fast closing, and my afflictions nearly at 
an end. I have been greatly afflicted, [alluding pro- 
bably to his illness,] but doubt not that it has been in 
unspeakable, unerring wisdom, that I have been 
thrown, again and again, into the furnace ; which is, 
no doubt, designed for my further refinement. Oh ! 
may all the purposes of the Almighty be fulfilled. Oh ! 
what a precious state is that, where nothing is wanted 
but the celestial gate to be opened. All praise I as- 
cribe unto the Lord's holy name.' "* 

He was enabled to bear, with great patience and 
Christian fortitude, the extreme sufferings which he en- 
dured within a short time of his death ; but, for a few 
hours before the close, he was mercifully relieved from 
all pain, and his end was remarkably peaceful. He 
died the 11th of the 10th month, 1825, in the seventy- 
third year of his age. 



* See the Memorial of Thaxted Monthly Meeting. 






( 19) 



CHAP. II. 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

1783. — 4 mo. 27. How different a character is he 
who is fond of procrastinating and delaying, from him, 
who, with a wise regard to the uncertainty of to-mor- 
row, nobly improves each opportunity whilst he has it. 

1783. — 10 mo. 15. From disobedience and difficul- 
ty, surely I am a dwarf, by not coming rightly forward 
to the duty of the day. How main a thing, through 
all, is an attention to the conclusion. Do not some of 
us labour and toil ourselves, to do that from fear, which 
those who are in the life of goodness do from love ? 

1784. — 10 mo. 13. Oh that none in ease and plenty 
may contribute, improperly, to make it difficult for 
those in less favoured circumstances to think of the Au- 
thor of their being with gratitude and love. 

1790. — 5 mo. 11. "While ye have the light, believe 
in the light, that ye may be the children of the light/' 
It appears a precious thing rightly to believe in the 
light, and to follow it : treading in the just man's path, 
which is said to be " as the shining light, that shineth 
more and more unto the perfect day." It is probable 
that many under our name do not believe in this light, 
nor expect, through faithfulness to its discoveries, to be 
led on further and further to the knowledge of the will 
of God, and to an establishment in his peaceable king- 
dom, even whilst in this life : not being like minded with 
a remnant who believe that his kingdom is come ; and 
who desire, according to ability, to be pressing into it, 
that they may be faithful subjects of it, and that the 
government may be on the shoulders of Him whom they 
desire to serve. 



20 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS, 

8 mo. 17. It is a fine thing to be preserved from every 
snare. I believe we may be so engaged in things which 
bear the appearance of being lawful, and even neces- 
sary and incumbent, as to be disqualified from posses- 
sing that tender, childlike, attentive state of mind, 
which appears so necessary to our growth in a divine 
life, and to a true filial obedience, in all things, to the 
will of our Heavenly Father. 

1792. — 4 mo. 12. Oh ! for a sincere love and attach- 
ment to that pure and undefiled religion, which stands 
in a filial devotedness of heart to do the Lord's will, 
and in a reverent, holy travail of soul, to be made truly 
acquainted with what his will is ; that so we may not 
be deceived, under an apprehension that we are fulfil- 
ling the divine will, when we are rather frustrating it 
by doing our own. This, I believe, may be the case, 
even in things which may have a good-like appear- 
ance. 

1799. — 6 mo. 13. I believe it is good for young men 
to make a point of devoting a small portion, at least, of 
every day, to read a little in the Bible, and endeavour 
after a little calm and quiet in their minds. Something 
may be presented to the minds in these short seasons of 
inward calm, which may a little nourish and cherish the 
divine life in the soul, and make room for the love of 
God to prevail a little ; and so, as this love is cherished 
and found to grow, the love of the world, and earnest 
desire after it, will lessen, and the soul be prepared to 
take its chief delight in something spiritual and hea- 
venly. 

1799. — 6 mo. 22. I feel low, under a sense of my 
want of the necessary qualification for active service in 
the church. Oh! that there may be more of a waiting 
for the putting forth ; and a deeper and more frequent- 
ly-renewed travail after dwelling in the pure life of 
religion, and after inward communion with the Lord ; 
— to know his will, and receive ability, in the abase- 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 21 

merit and abnegation of self, to do it to his glory, and 
my own soul's true peace. 

1801. — 9 mo. 14. Oh ! that we may be made what 
the Lord would have us to be ; that is, in harmony 
with his work in the earth ; standing faithful, accor- 
ding to the present day's administration and service, as 
many of our worthy predecessors stood faithful in their 
day and time. The great thing is, to be found in our 
lot , let the state of Truth's cause be whatsoever it may 
in the world. 

I think I see a great danger in Friends getting into 
easy circumstances : it renders them not so strong, and 
able to endure hardness as good soldiers. I believe all 
we have must be at the divine disposal, and so felt by 
us, before we can be fully qualified to endure all things 
that may be required of a disciple of Christ, in filling 
up his lot in the militant church. 

1810. — 8 mo. 8. I find a great proneness in the mind 
to be, every now and then, laying hold of something 
wherein to expect a sort of permanency of satisfaction, 
if not of delight ; but I doubt my capacity to do this, 
and yet retain a due readiness sincerely to say, " Thy 
will be done," should these things be called for. When 
we use the words, " Thy will be done on earth, as it is 
in heaven," surely we mean to be sincere ; but what 
submission and devotion of heart and will, does this im- 
ply : no obstruction or resistance to the divine will " as 
in heaven." 

I I mo 9 8. I believe we came into this world for the 
great and momentous purpose of being eternally happy. 
Even the present life, which is a mixed and a proba- 
tionary state, is replete with numberless blessings, and 
precious enjoyments, along with the attendant trials. 
And our duty and highest interest is, so to encounter 
the trials incident to this present existence, and so to 
participate of the comforts and mercies afforded, as 
that our minds may be capable to bless the Lord for 



22 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

his goodness, in giving us a being, and preserving us ; 
and to meet the end with resignation and peace. 

11 mo. 10. The true dignity of man — of a Christian 
— consists in endeavouring to fill up his duty, in the 
station which he is permitted to fill in this world. There 
are few, if any situations, in which a man who is up- 
right may not shine. There is lustre in integrity ; and 
the peace which Christ gives to his humble, dependent 
children, can reach the humble cottager, as w r ell as the 
inhabitant of the mansion. Many, by having their eye 
out after things not within their reach, nor within their 
sphere, neglect or overlook surrounding and intended 
blessings ; and so are not thankful, as they might be. 
Thankfulness for mercies received is a very precious 
feeling, and gives a sweet relish to what we enjoy. 
Let us, therefore, in the first place, be sensible and feel 
what we are, and diligently occupy and improve our 
talents and gifts in the fear of the Lord ; and desire, 
above all things, to be kept within the reach of his 
blessing ; so shall the increase, if permitted, be enjoyed 
without violating the peace of our minds. 

1811. — 4 mo. 28. A precious sentiment it is, " that 
the spirit of benevolence, if cherished and encouraged, 
sends forth fresh shoots." The soul is enriched by an 
increase of benevolence, although the means of gratify- 
ing or exercising it, to an extent adequate to our feel- 
ings, may not be within our power. 

1812. — 1 mo. 25. It is a precious thing to have a 
belief and feeling produced in our minds, that we are 
under the divine gracious care and protection. Per- 
haps I have not sustained more loss, or religious disad- 
vantage, any way, than 1 have for want of more dili- 
gently minding the very gentle intimations or calls to 
inward stillness, A feeling of a connexion with the 
Fountain of Good is, above all things, to be prized ; 
and this feeling is utterly out of our control or com- 
mand, and consequently to be accepted with reverence 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 



23 



and cheerfulness, whenever vouchsafed. We cannot 
prize it too much : it is a treasure in prosperity : it is a 
treasure in adversity ; it will be emphatically a trea- 
sure, when the awful moments arrive for us to bid an 
eternal farewell to the things of time and sense. 

8 mo. 22. We are, indeed, fearfully and wonderful- 
ly made. From the nature of our present condition, 
we see things very differently at different times ; per- 
haps, in part, occasioned by our attempting to see and 
judge when we are not in a situation for it. 

10 mo. 24. Having now, except about three weeks, 
completed my sixtieth year, I may say, that in turning 
over some of the leaves of my past life, I may record 
occasions of reverent and humble thankfulness, for hav- 
ing been permitted to escape with as little of wounds 
and bruises as I have ; and for the extension of divine 
goodness and mercy towards me, many ways. And I 
think my religious experience, if I may call any thing 
which I have known by that name, has been much 
found in the path of faith, rather than of sight. Just 
enough vouchsafed to preserve me a believer in the 
path, and in the power which sustains in it. Perhaps 
this has been the manner in which I have been led 
along, because it was best for me, as most calculated to 
keep me humble ; often having nothing good, nor know- 
ing how to come at any good ; but at times sweetly 
refreshed with calmness and serenity, rather than with 
the spirit of warm devotion, or any thing like exstacy 
or rapture. 

1813.— 1 mo. 22. The great thing appears to be, to 
have the right hunger and thirst after righteousness ex- 
cited and preserved, or maintained, in the mind ; then 
things which are of an earthly, transitory, or unsatisfy- 
ing nature, will be trials, as they prevent a participa- 
tion of the blessed fruits of this righteousness. Many 
are resting in these outward enjoyments, as if they 
were the end of our being ; but the true Christian, the 
true believer, is permitted to enjoy abundance of bles- 

c * 



24 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

sings, without resting in them, and so has the comfort of 
the life which now is, and of that which is to come. 

1814. — 3 mo. 24. To write of the immediate and 
particular influences of the Spirit of Truth upon the 
mind, in the way we understand and believe that sub- 
ject, is a very delicate business, especially when an ap- 
plication is made to particular and striking instances ; 
because it may often happen that there is really not a 
capacity in the persons addressed, to receive what is 
advanced. Whether the doctrine of clear, immediate 
revelation, in the present day, be truth and reality, as 
we most surely believe, or not, it must be granted to 
be possible that it may be so ; that is, that it may be 
truth. 

1814. — 4 mo. 1. How many ways to involve the 
mind in a continual something that seems plausible ; 
and so not keep it just in readiness to hear the call, to 
hearken to the voice, or yield to the gentle, inclining 
influence of divine love ; an influence often so soft and 
silent, as to be very, very easily put by, quashed, lost, 
forgotten. 

1815. — 11 mo. 2. The occurrence of a great varie- 
ty of things to engage the attention, on our own and 
other people's account, seems to fill up much of the 
time, which is passing over, never to return, that I have 
great occasion to be careful to give the preference to 
those things, if I can happily distinguish them, which 
are of the most importance ; because the remaining 
sands in the glass are spending very fast, and, most pro- 
bably, in a few years, at the longest, there will be none 
remaining. Whilst we are conflicting with the vari-~ 
ous infirmities of our nature, it is a precious thing, to 
those who are favoured, under all, and through all, to 
grow in religious experience; not casting away the 
shield, either in the day, or in the night season : but in 
humble trust and dependence on divine support, pres- 
sing forward, holding fast the profession of their faith, 
not easily blown about by floating opinions, but watch- 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 25 

ing for the manifestation of that light, and of that calm- 
ing influence which satisfies the soul, and gives ability 
to rejoice, amidst the jeopardies of an earthly pilgri- 
mage. 

1817. — 6 mo. When individuals, through disobedi- 
ence or unfaithfulness, have been brought into griev- 
ous perplexity and embarrassment, it often happens, 
that, in condescending goodness towards his poor crea- 
tures, our Almighty Father does not will their continu- 
ance in this wilderness condition, but is graciously dis- 
posed to bring them out of it. But then, if we would 
come forth perfect, his own ail-wise process must be 
submitted to with patience and resignation. Whatever 
the provings and the humiliation required, we may 
rest satisfied that they are necessary to effect the pur- 
pose intended ; and if we are at length brought through 
so as to stand in a state of acceptance before Him, and 
to partake of the peace which He gives, we shall not 
have to say, we have suffered more for the attainment 
of the prize, than it is found to be worth. Oh i the un- 
speakable value, to the exercised mind, of patience and 
resignation. 

1818. — 4 mo. 27. conversing this morning 

on the politics of Europe, concluded with this beautiful 
sentiment : " that there is nothing; substantial and sa- 
tisfactory but the Supreme Good ; in it, the deeper we 
go, and the more largely we drink, the better and hap- 
pier we are ; whereas, in outward acquirements, if we 
could attain to the summit and perfection of them, the 
very possession and enjoyment palls." 

1818. — 9 mo. 6. Oh! the inestimable favour it is, 
to be true believers, and thereby to be made, from time 
to time, partakers of the [spiritual] bread which is 
broken, and the wine which is in mercy handed to sus- 
tain, to animate, to enliven the soul. 

1819. — 6 mo. 15. Oh! for some share of inheri- 
tance, or fellowship, with those whom the Lord de- 
lighteth to bless. 



26 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

1821. — 1 mo. 5. Many are the favours which the 
tried and exercised servants of the Lord have to com- 
memorate, in the course of their devotion to his cause. 
May we all, in our various allotments, endeavour to he 
more and more preserved in a state of watchful depen- 
dence upon Him : that so, whether at home or abroad, 
our experience of his goodness, mercy, and truth, may 
be enlarged and confirmed, to our own consolation and 
encouragement of others. 

1821. — 5 mo. 20. The Yearly Meeting was largely 
attended, and was a solid, instructive, and interesting 
season. As a religious society, we have much indeed 
to be thankful for ; and I do hope there is much to be 
encouraged about, as to the state of things among us, al- 
though much to lament. Perhaps few things more to 
be lamented, than that many of us are not enough con- 
vinced, that there is no advancing in true Christian ex- 
perience, and inheriting the riches, and privileges, and 
consolations of the gospel of Christ, without submitting 
to his yoke, and bearing his cross. 

1822. — 9 mo, 8. Reverently do I wish to acknow- 
ledge the belief, that there is that which can richly 
make amends for every privation, heal every breach, 
cause the wilderness and the solitary place to be glad, 
and the desert to rejoice and blossom as the rose. But, 
oh ! for an increase of capacity to look unto this, and to 
walk worthy of receiving such blessing. 

1823. — 2 mo. 23. It is a great privilege, in afflic- 
tion, to be near tender, sympathizing friends ; particu- 
larly, may 1 not say-, at our time of life, when both bo- 
dily and mental energy may be considered on the de- 
cline. And oh i that, in all our trials, both inward and 
outward, the divine arm of everlasting loving-kindness 
and compassion may be underneath, to bear up and 
sustain, and afford us a safe landing at last, beyond the 
reach of all conflict and all fear. 

1823. — 7 mo. 21, We require some one to speak 
to freely, and also confidentially. And besides, how 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 27 

greatly is human comfort, at times increased, by a reci- 
procity of innocent communication. I believe it re- 
lieves the more weighty, and, sometimes, over-anxious 
cogitations of the mind ; and, by so relieving, contri- 
butes to our resuming them with more effect and ad- 
vantage. 

1824. — 3 mo. 7. How much I desire that nothing, 
amidst all the ups and downs that occur, may be per- 
mitted to prevent us from seeking after the love and 
favour, the support and protection of our Heavenly 
Father. I think I scarcely ever found and felMt more 
needful for myself, than now of late time. 

Give what Thou wilt, without Thee we are poor, 
And with Thee, rich, take what Thou wilt away. 

1823. — 10 mo. 12. How earnestly to be desired is 
a complete redemption from all selfishness : then would 
envy, pride, and wrath, no more torment the poor 
mind. 

1824. — 4 mo. May I, with reverence and humility, 
say, that 1 believe there is nothing to separate the re- 
deemed soul from the spirit of the blessed Redeemer ; 
and that, where He is, there will also his servants be. 
He that is in Christ is a new creature ; and being, 
through redeeming love and mercy, brought into Him, 
and continuing in Him, who is the resurrection and the 
life, such shall never die, but remain in Him for ever 
and evermore. 

1824. — 8 mo. 1. It is a great comfort, when past 
seventy, to be pretty well ; so as to enjoy the bounty 
of kind Providence, and endeavour to improve the fur- 
ther portion of time allotted ; so that we may, through 
mercy, be ready for the final, awful change, when it 
comes. 

1824. — 12 mo. 8. How unspeakably worthy our 
love, our allegiance, our seeking after, and our more 
frequent communion, is the Spirit of Truth. How 
ought it to be [sought after] from day to day, and 
through the day, so as to raise and bear up our minds 



28 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

above the things of time, even whilst we are necessarily 
engaged in them ; seeing they are all very uncertain, 
and we may be taken from them, or they from us, very 
unexpectedly. In such case, to have our minds pre- 
viously well acquainted with divine love, and, as it 
were, enwrapped with it — what a treasure ! 

1825. — 3 mo. What a fine thing it is to be preserved 
in the humility, simplicity, and stability which Truth 
gives to its sincere and devoted disciples. Oh ! for a 
more general, deep acquaintance with the value of true 
quiet, where the thirst for change and novelty is not 
felt ; but a sincere waiting and desire is known, after 
that which is not of man, nor of the strength and abi- 
lities of man, but of the Lord. Here, I believe, the 
creature will be kept low, diffident, and fearful of itself ; 
and more ready and desirous to be taught and instruct- 
ed, than to fancy itself qualified to instruct others. 

The creation of the world and of man was, and 

is, a marvellous display of the divine glory ; and the 
highest dignity and happiness of man, is to live, in uni- 
son with this effect of the divine will and purpose, that 
we may not missof intended good and enjoyment, which 
it seems are only to be this way come at. Our Hea- 
venly Father wants nothing. He is perfect ; his glory 
is perfect ; and this or that act are only a display of 
such part of his glory, as his infinite wisdom thinks 
meet, and for the best, at any particular period, or on 
any particular occasion. 

— — The expression of beautiful sentiments, and the 
reading and approving of them, afford a delight to the 
mind ; but do not always deepen us in religious sensi- 
bility, or increase our love for the simplicity of the 
Truth as it is in Jesus, or advance us in the consequent 
knowledge and experience of heavenly good. In con- 
templating this subject, 1 have remembered the import 
of a few expressions of an eminent minister: " We love 
the splendid, pleasant picture ; but this is an easy pur- 



X 



MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 29 

chase, in comparison of the deep-hid, inestimable pearl 
of substantial truth." 

This morning I have a somewhat luminous view 

of the nature and preciousness of the gospel ministry, 
and other rightly-religious exercises. God is the inex- 
haustible fountain of all good : there is no goodness but 
what comes from Him ; consequently, nothing for poor 
human nature to plume itself upon. This divine power 
goes forth in such manner, time, and degree, as is con- 
sistent with its own infinite wisdom and goodness ; in 
displays of beneficence, mercy, and blessing to its crea- 
tures : sometimes in immediate communications of light, 
life, and divine virtue and sweetness to the souls of indi- 
viduals, for their own advancement in the path of sal- 
vation ; and sometimes in precious gifts of qualification, 
for the benefit of others, the edification of the church, 
and for other religious services. 

• To have a mind preserved in such a state as to 

be susceptible of the impression of heavenly good, I 
esteem of primary and vital importance. To those 
who desire to witness the fulness of gospel privilege and 
blessing, this is very essential ; seeing that there are 
seasons in which such a sweetness and precious solemnity 
are to be witnessed, as is comparable, in degree, to hea- 
ven upon earth ; as well as that it is our Christian 
duty to lead others, by our example and influence, to 
the same enjoyment. 

By how many and how various means do we 

get broken down, aVid gradually prepared for our eter- 
nal separation from this frail and uncertain state of be- 
ing ; and how exceedingly is it to be desired that we 
may all so improve the time of health and bodily abi- 
lity, as that, when sickness, pain, and affliction are mea- 
sured out to us, we may be favoured with that sweet- 
ness and peace which bear up the mind above the 
w r aves, and enable us to say, the rod as well as the staff 
of the Lord's goodness, are our comfort and our rejoic- 
ing. 



30 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS. 

Convince me, more and more, O Lord ! I be- 



seech thee, that thy time is the only time for true re- 
freshment and comfort to the poor soul : and that every 
visitation of thy love and life is exceedingly precious, 
and not to be trilled with or passed by, as to a more 
convenient season of mine. 

Grant, I pray thee, that the chief study of my life 
may be to be found in a state of readiness to receive, 
adopt, and yield to every of thy gracious offers of love 
and life ; that so my poor soul may indeed have a share 
in the spiritual kingdom of Thee, the living and true 
God, even in this life ; and so come increasingly to know 
that Thou art the only true riches, and that every 
thing else is fleeting and uncertain. 

Remove, I pray thee, by the gentle showers of thy 
celestial rain, the hardness of my heart, and make it 
very susceptible of the impressions of thy Holy Spirit : 
that I may be indeed thv servant, and that Thou mavst 
delight to bless me, and increase my knowledge and ex- 
perience in thy precious truth, and in Thyself, the only 
and enduring treasure of the soul. 

Oh adorable Goodness, Wisdom, and Power ! 

preserve me so, I pray Thee, that nothing may deprive 
me oi the capacity to enjoy Thee, according to the 
manner and degree in which it may please Thee, in 
thy mercy, to make thyself known to thy poor, unwor- 
thy, but depending creature, in time and to all eternity. 



( 31 ) 



CHAP. III. 



EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS AND OTHER PAPFRS 
RELATING TO THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 
OF OUR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. ™«ttfLES 



Some Remarks on the Religious Principles of the People 
called Quakers, as to Wars and Fightings. 

It becomes those who profess faith towards God, and 
who, in obedience to what they believe to be their re- 
ligious duty, differ in some things from other professors, 
to be > willing, in meekness and fear, to render a reason 
tor that difference. And as there may be many who 
have not been fully informed of the grounds on which 
the people called Quakers, ever since they were a peo- 
ple, have borne a testimony against Wars and Fight- 
ings, it may be acceptable to some serious inquirers to 
know a little what those grounds are. 

1st. They believe that the happiness of mankind, in 
an especial manner, depends upon their living in the 
fear of God ; walking in obedience to the secret mani- 
festations of Truth, through that divine principle of 
light and grace given to every man to profit with ; for- 
saking every thing which this divine principle mani- 
fests to be evil ; and following after every thing which 
it manifests to be righteous, holy, and acceptable to God 
our Creator, our beneficent Preserver, and final Judge. 

2nd. They believe that the Christian religion is a rel 
ligion of universal love ; and that, as the minds of men 
are, through divine assistance, gathered into this love, 
they become qualified to fulfil that injunction of Christ 
Jesus, the author of the Christian religion ; " Love your 



D 



32 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 

enemies ; bless them that curse you ; do good to them 
that hate you." They believe that this truly noble and 
happy state of mind is not attainable in our own will 
and time ; but that, as mankind yield to the secret in- 
fluences of that divine principle of light and grace in 
the heart, alluded to, they are favoured, more and 
more, to gain an ascendency over self-love, and to wit- 
ness an enlargement of heart, so as to desire the good 
of all, and that all may be brought to partake of that 
happiness which results from the favour and blessing 
of Almighty God. 

3rd. They believe, that as this divine love has full 
place in the minds of any people, the understanding be- 
comes enlightened, so as clearly to see that all conten- 
tion is out of the Truth, and out of the way of substan- 
tial happiness. And a desire accompanies these, that 
no part of their conduct may contribute to discord in 
any shape, either between families, between neigh- 
bours, or between nations ; but being made sensible that 
all contention is evil, and that the continuance thereof 
interrupts the comfort of mankind, they desire to be 
preserved from doing any thing to keep it alive ; and, 
consequently, to manifest by their conduct, that they 
believe it more consistent for the professed followers of 
Christ to take no active part in war; because war 
brings grievous calamity upon the earth, destroys the 
lives of our fellow-creatures, and tends to cherish that 
spirit of animosity and confusion which is inconsistent 
with the gospel of peace. 

4th. They believe that passage of the Sacred Writ- 
ings to be particularly encouraging to those who pro- 
fess faith in God, and in his divine providence and pro- 
tection : " As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, 
so the Lord is round about his people, from henceforth 
even for ever ;" and that the strongest bulwark to any 
nation, is the favour and protection of Him, who can 
save with equal ease in times of great perplexity, as in 
seasons of less outward difficulty. 



OF OUR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. 33 

5th. They believe that the way to obtain this favour 
and protection, is to walk faithfully before Him ; reve- 
rently depending upon Him, and in all things desiring 
that his will may be the rule and government of our 
lives. And they believe that, for a nation so walking 
and so depending, there is greater safety in this trust in 
the divine arm of power, than in the strength of ar- 
mies ; and that it is beautifully consistent for those in 
any nation who are thus convinced and thus believing, 
to endeavour, in humility and reverence, to cast their 
care upon Him, desiring to be resigned to every dis- 
pensation of his providence ; and that, whatever hap- 
pens, they may be found clear in his sight of having 
contributed to the distress, the unspeakable distress 
and bloodshed of their fellow-creatures. 



Extracts from Letters, fyc. 

1815. — 12 mo. 29. I am not aware that Friends, as 
a Society, rate too highly the ground on which they 
are called to stand ; although unhappily, too many of 
us do not maintain our standing. And I think we may 
safely believe this, without ascribing any thing to the 
creature, or magnifying the people ; but reverently 
acquiescing with and acknowledging the Power whence 
the gifts and ability proceed. 

If, by a mighty hand, and by a stretched-out arm, 
our predecessors were brought forth from amidst the 
different denominations of professors, and enabled to 
bear faithful and undeviating testimony to the spiritu- 
ality of the gospel — to the necessity of following the 
Captain of salvation, whithersoever He is pleased to 
lead by his light and truth manifested in the secret of 
the soul ; in other words, in the path of self-denial and 
the daily cross — to the necessity of avoiding all confor- 
mity with formality, all unrighteous conformity to the 



34 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 

maxims, policy, fashions, and friendships of the world 
— to hold up a standard against wars and against oaths, 
and a testimony to the freedom of gospel-ministry, and 
to that worship which, laying aside all rites and cere- 
monies, as constituted and proper appendages to the 
gospel dispensation, is performed in spirit and in truth : 
— If they have been brought to the blessed and glori- 
ous avowal, " That in pure, silent worship, we dwell 
under the holy Anointing, and feel Christ to be our 
Shepherd ; that here the best of Teachers ministers to 
the several conditions of his flock, and the soul receives, 
immediately from the divine Fountain, that with which 
it is nourished :" — If this people have been brought thus 
far, surely it becomes the living among them, in the 
depth of humility, reverence, and fear, to say, as a col- 
lective body, " He that is mighty hath done for us great 
things, and holy is his name ;" — has placed us in the 
midst of many mercies, in a state of awful responsibi- 
lity. Are we not brought to the acknowledgment, that 
" the opening of an inward, silent worship in this nation, 
is a precious opening ;" and that it is our duty to walk 
answerably to the nature of an inward communion 
with God, that so no stumbling-block, through us, may 
be laid in the way of others? The awfulness of the 
responsibility does not annul the truth of it ; and I be- 
lieve it is unsafe to flinch from or deny it. 

I rejoice greatly in the spread of the Holy Scrip- 
tures, and in the institution of the British and Foreign 
Bible Society, as a present, highly favoured means of 
this spread. I am concerned, by word and example, to 
encourage Bible-meetings ; and 1 think am never so 
comfortable, if 1 am prevented attending those to which, 
as appertaining to our district, I may be said to be- 
long ; I mean, our quarterly committees and our anni- 
versary at Saffron Walden. But 1 see great cause, in- 
deed, for Friends to be very watchful on such occa- 
sions. How conspicuous seems to be the fondness to 
give applause, if not to receive it ; to say nothing of so 



OF OTJR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. 35 

liberally ascribing to the Bible, that which can rightly 
be ascribed only to the Divine Spirit. How humble, 
how deep in travail, then, had Friends need be, that 
they may be enabled to keep their ground — to support, 
yea, exalt their testimony to the necessity of help and 
strength from the Lord, for the advancement of his 
own cause. I believe they may be greatly useful in 
such assemblies, and, by the savour of their spirits, 
tend at times, more or less, to season others. But how 
great is the danger, lest, instead of communicating 
strength to others, we lose, in degree, our hold of the 
steadfastness and beauty of the pure and unchangeable 
Truth. 

I believe, in a meeting for discipline, rightly gathered 
and rightly preserved, the united exercise of living 
members is, that Truth may prevail over all. To a 
meeting thus circumstanced, I believe at times, a very 
precious sensibility is vouchsafed, and Friends travel 
on in the simplicity of filial fear and reverence ; and 
when a nomination is depending, Friends become, at 
times, constrained, at other times feel a tender, bro- 
therly, sensible freedom, to mention a name, without 
daring to stamp it high; but, in resignation, leaving it 
to make its way, or otherwise, as the Master pleases ; 
and leaving it with the meeting, whether the right sa- 
vour attends the expression, and whether there may 
be a right capacity in the nominee, to accept or de- 
cline. Thus Friends feel one for another, and the bond 
©f tender gospel affection is preserved ; and the travail 
for the cause maintained, and its prosperity sought, be- 
yond all other considerations. Oh ! one can seem to 
conceive what a precious thing it is, when Friends, in 
their meetings for discipline, can rightly bow under the 
solemnizing influence ; not stamping any thing they 
do, high ; but fearing, in the least degree, to wound 
the precious cause, or contribute to disperse the pre- 
cious solemnity, either by speaking or by withholding. 

p * 



36 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 

I speak not, very, very far from it, as one that has at- 
tained, but as a believer in the validity of these things : 
and in the favoured condition of rightly-gathered, and 
rightly-preserved meetings for discipline. 

1817. — 6 mo. Whether we be ministers, elders, 
overseers, or of whatever class, I believe we should 
mind where we are ; and rather bear a burden, per- 
haps rightly brought upon us, from sympathy, or the 
operation and influence of the Spirit, than venture to 
relieve ourselves, when circumstances and the want of 
opportunity forbid. I believe, in a large meeting, a diver- 
sity of exercise may be excited in lively-spirited Friends, 
which it would be very inexpedient to bring forth in words. 
But I suppose that the weighty, deeply-attentive, pa- 
tient mind, is permitted to discover the right time for 
moving ; and then, the baptizing influence being dwelt 
under in the exercise of the gift, the meeting feels the 
precious effect. But I rather think, that some who 
have a gift in the ministry, miss it at times, in the ex- 
ercise of it, for want of understanding, at the time, the 
state of the meeting ; perhaps, partly, from being in- 
volved in their own exercise. When a meeting is bap- 
tized under a living ministry, and the minister sits 
down, it is a nice thing indeed to make an addition ; 
at least, before a suitable space has been allowed. As 
the end of all true ministry is to bring the hearers to 
an abiding under the influence of the Spirit of Christ, 
we should rejoice when this is in any considerable de- 
gree produced by the ministry of any Friend ; and be 
very careful not to step in, in a way to dissipate the 
solemnity, or remove the sense which has thus profita- 
bly been begotten. At the same time, it is very desi- 
rable that no rightly appointed offering should be pre- 
vented ; and the diversitv of states and conditions is to 
be remembered. So that it is indeed a mystery ; and 
a very weighty thing is living, baptizing, ministry. 



OF OUR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. 37 

I remember, whilst on this subject, a remark of dear 
Henry Tuke, in our quarterly meeting, a pretty many 
years ago, that he thought hardly a greater evil could 
befall us, as a religious society, than an unbaptized mi- 
nistry. As to offerings in the ministry, rendered un- 
seasonable from the circumstance of a meeting being 
in measure baptized by previous ministry, I believe, 
solid, judicious elders might be greatly helpful to our 
dear ministering friends of less experience : they are 
much to be felt for, and so are meetings. 

1821. — 5 mo. 19. My mind so sincerely entertains 
the belief, that all good cometh from God, and therefore 
must be patiently and reverently waited for, that I can 
heartily join in desire, that, in our meetings for disci- 
pline, the creature may be kept humble, simple, and 
dependent ; looking for the blessing on its feeble en- 
deavours, unto Him who is the Alpha and Omega, the 
inexhaustible source both of strength and consolation. 
It behoves the rightly exercised, to be especially careful 
to keep their posts in such meetings ; that nothing draw 
them off their guard, or betray them into movements 
unworthy of the faithful followers of the Lamb. The 
exercised frame of their spirits might be sweetly en- 
couraging to younger, well-inclined Friends, and thus 
strength be progressively gained to the meeting. I am 
not sure whether it is possible, by words, to convince 
the gainsayers, if many such there be, that our meet- 
ings for discipline are divinely owned and crowned ; but 
if those who know the Truth, and love it, would keep 
their ranks faithfully, with meekness and lowliness, yet 
in stability and gospel-beauty, it would, perhaps, go 
further than any thing else ; and I believe these, right- 
ly engaged, would be blessed in meetings, and meetings 
blessed in them. 

I think, in meetings for discipline, made up of a great 
variety of states and conditions, it is a precious thing 
that we endeavour to gather into silence ; and may we 



38 ON THE CHARACTER AND PRINCIPLES 

not consider the solemnity which sometimes prevails, to 
be like a mantle cast over us, preparatory to entering 
on the business, and to proceeding in order, as the sub- 
jects successively rise before us ; and perhaps, in the 
condescension of Him who knows the circumstances 
and state of every mind, it may be permitted, that 
there should be an entering into the concerns of the 
meeting, by many, or by most present, according to 
their present capacity, growth, and attainment. And 
in a degree of integrity and simplicity, without much 
religious experience in some, there may be a desire 
that the right thing may be promoted ; and by these, 
a few words expressed, without offence or wound to the 
meeting. 

1822. — 11 mo. 17. May we not with reverence be- 
lieve, when the Most High was pleased, in the going 
forth of his wisdom and of his mercy, to gather the re- 
ligious society of which we have the unspeakable pri- 
vilege of being members, that he proposed to bring them 
forth as a people, wholly separated from the apostasy, 
which had previously so overwhelmed the Christian 
world ; giving, in a wonderful degree, light, and power 
to discern, exhibit, and faithfully testify against the 
spirit, and the fruits of that apostasy : — in other words, 
to call forth a people who should aim at perfection, 
in accordance with our blessed Saviour's injunction : 
" Be ye, therefore, perfect, even as your Father which 
is in heaven is perfect :" — who should aim at a state of 
perfect acceptance with Him ; compromising nothing ; 
abating nothing ; but pressing on, through all discou- 
ragement and opposition, towards the mark for the prize 
— the blessed prize of unalloyed peace. 

If this were the case, can we wonder that they were 
very quick of discernment, respecting any thing that 
came in their way, which was, either in root or in 
branch, appertaining to the apostasy ? As they sought 
the glory of God, they were very zealous against what 



OF OUR RELIGIOUS SOCIETY. 39 

they believed derogatory therefrom. As they loved 
the truth as it is in Jesus, they were grieved and offend- 
ed at any thing which they thought militated against 
the purity and simplicity of it. The persecutions and 
trials which they met with, joined with the convictive 
evidence of Truth in their own minds, tended greatly 
to wean them from the world, and to fix their attention 
closely on promoting the glory of God ; therein securing 
their own happiness, and conducing to the happiness of 
others in this life, and, finally, in that kingdom where- 
unto the robber and destroyer cannot come. 

Can we, without tender emotion, contemplate what 
different conclusions will be produced respecting the 
same subjects, where, on one hand, a people are zeal- 
ously, yet reverently and humbly, pursuing the glory 
of God, as the principal thing, or with an undivided 
aim ; or where, on the other hand, the spirit, the 
maxims, and the enjoyments of the world, are claiming 
a very considerable proportion of the attention of the 
mind, and the strength of its faculties? In the former 
case, how nice, tender, and scrupulous, that nothing be 
admitted, trenching at all upon their allegiance to God, 
and their testimony against whatever has sprung from 
the apostasy, or militates against the spirit of the gospel 
of Christ ; endeavouring to be faithful in every point, 
and being exceedingly jealous of whatever is either de- 
cidedly inconsistent with the purity of the Gospel, or 
that is of such a complexion. In the latter case, what 
nice distinctions are sought up, and found out ; what 
subtle reasonings, tending to lessen suffering — to abate 
the distinction between the humble, devoted follower, 
and those who appear willing to run the hazard of that 
which may eventually distress, if not lay waste, the So- 
ciety ; keeping as near the world's maxims as they can, 
with tolerable satisfaction ; and having, perhaps, the 
right eye towards it, and the left eye towards the king- 
dom everlasting, 



(40) 



CHAP. IV. 



LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS ADDRESSED TO 
THOSE IN EARLY LIFE. 



Tender Counsel to the Young. 

In looking towards the young men in our religious 
Society, and esteeming them a precious, and very in- 
teresting part of the body, I consider their preserva- 
tion in the midst of the dangers of the world, a most 
worthy object of attention. I believe some of them, 
from circumstances which occur, are led, at an early 
age, into temptations and deviations, that eventually 
tend to their perplexity and distress ; and that they, 
in many instances, lose a state of comparative inno- 
cence, before they are rightly aware of the value of 
themselves, and how much the sweetness and true en- 
joyment of life, are increased by humbly walking in the 
fear of God ; not in slavish, but filial fear ; for He is 
our gracious Father, and the fountain of all blessing. 

I am inclined, in affectionate desire that they may 
not forfeit the substance of comfort, through a pursuit 
of the shadow, to recommend the following short 
hints : — 

I believe it is good for young men, to make a point 
of devoting a small portion of time— a few moments — 
every day, to read a little in the Holy Scriptures, and 
to endeavour to yield their minds, in sincerity, into a 
short calm and quiet. For, in divine loving-kindness, 
something may be vouchsafed and communicated, in 
these short seasons of mental recollection, which will, 



LETTERS ADDRESSED TO THE YOUNG. 41 

in degree, nourish and cherish the Divine Life in the 
soul, so that the Love of God will be felt to prevail a 
little ; and as this love is entertained, and found to in- 
crease, the love of the world, and the anxious desire 
after its enjoyments, will lessen, and the mind be pre- 
pared to take its chief delight in something spiritual 
and heavenly. This experience will prove a perma- 
nent treasure. 



Thoughts on Company and Boohs. 

1 wish to feel for young people, under the various 
temptations and trials to which the years of inexperi- 
ence are exposed. They are naturally and reasonably 
inclined to learn, and to accomplish themselves in orna- 
ment and usefulness. To this end, as well as for tem- 
porary gratification, they value and prefer company 
and books. Most of them, perhaps, would say good 
company and good books ; and it is a delicate and very 
interesting matter to determine in what degree to dis- 
courage, or to countenance this inclination. It is an 
unspeakable favour, however, early in life, to know, 
that, in the silence and retirement of the mind, there is 
instruction and comfort to be met with, beyond what 
can be expected, either from even good company, or 
good books. It is observable, by the attentive mind, 
that there may be an enjoyment of books and of com- 
pany which strengthens us in the love, esteem, and pur- 
suit of this silence and retirement ; and there is an 
enjoyment of good books and good company, which 
weakens and enfeebles the mind, in its capacity to love, 
pursue, and enjoy this profitable silence and medita- 
tion. Here, then, dear young friend, whosoever thou 
art, is the point of wisdom. Mind, day by day, and 
through all, an inward sense respecting things, and thou 
mayst be favoured to perceive what thy duty calls for 



42 LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS 

at thy hands, as to thy outward, temporal, domestic, or 
social occupations ; and then what time thou canst pro- 
perly spare for company and books, and how much of 
either thou canst enjoy, with religious benefit to thy 
own mind. Much company and many books, or much 
reading, have often a direct tendency to draw the at- 
tention of the mind outw 7 ard, instead of inward. And 
here there is need of wise discrimination. If thy com- 
pany, or thy reading, tends to give thee a humbling view 
of thyself, and of thy many frailties and infirmities, and 
to increase the ardour of thy mind, in the pursuit of 
divine help, of inward quietude, and sweet, enriching 
peace, thou mayst conclude so much of it is good 
for thee ; but if either of them be such, or indulged in 
to such a degree, as unprofitably to occupy thy mind, 
and rather indispose than encourage thee in the love 
of inward recollection and meditation, thou mayst 
safely conclude there is a snare in it, and that there is 
danger lest the durable and precious substance may be 
lost in the pursuit of the shadow. 



The three following Letters were written to young men who 
lived with W. G. as apprentices. 

1801. — 9 mo. Being favoured to desire that thou, 
and the other young men, may be kept in a reverent, 
tender fear of offending the Lord your Maker in any 
thing, I seemed most easy to attempt a few lines to thee, 
after this manner, without any wish to write much, 
but so as to reach the divine witness on thy mind. 

I tenderly request thee to weigh these remarks so- 
lidly ; and at such time as thy mind is most favoured 
with good desires for thyself, and at such times as thou 
art favoured to crave that, when thou hast done with 
the things of time, thou mayst be found worthy to have 
a place in the mansions of eternal rest and peace. Now, 



ADDRESSED TO THE YOUNG, 48 

I believe that the way to be truly happy, is to endea- 
vour to do the will of God. The way to enjoy the bles- 
sings intended for his dear children, is to serve Him, 
and obey Him in child-like simplicity ; to dwell under 
a sense that He is our Father ; and to look up to Him, 
as He that can provide for us, take care of us, lead us, 
feed us, and keep us. To have this sense upon the mind 
is very precious, and is what I crave for me and mine, 
and those under my care. Here self is gradually re- 
duced, and kept under; and we are made sensible, 
that there is no safety for us, whatever may be our at- 
tainments, but as we are doing his will ; and as we are 
measurably clothed with a tender, filial fear, lest we 
should be found doing any thing that would deprive us 
of a sense of his love upon our spirits. As this is not at 
our command, so we are led to prize it, when He is 
pleased to favour with it ; and when it is withdrawn, 
and we are left barren, and poor, and stripped, and 
have nothing, as it were, to lean upon, and no feeling 
of inward support and comfort, oh ! what poor things 
we are, let things in the outward be as they may, ever 
so fair and flourishing : they are fleeting and uncertain, 
wearing away one day after another, and leaving us in 
an unprofitable state, if we have not something within 
to animate and enliven our minds. As we come to 
make a right estimate of things, and are favoured to 
love the Truth above all, and to value a sweet and 
quiet mind, and the feeling of divine love upon our spi- 
rits, above the transient enjoyments of time, we come 
to feel and to know, that nothing is a little thing to us, 
which prevents us from drawing nigh to the Lord in our 
hearts, and offering up ourselves to Him in secret dedi- 
cation, [ saying,] " Here 1 am : make me to be thine, 
and preserve me from offending Thee in thought, word, 
or deed ; that so Thou mayst be mercifully pleased to 
enrich my mind with the light of thy countenance, and 
to favour me with thy life-giving presence." 

E 



44 LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS 

As time is very uncertain to us all, both young 

and old, and we know not whether another opportunity 
so favourable may present, I feel a tender inclination 
now, at parting, to tell thee, that I sincerely wish thee 
well ; and under that influence, to call thy attention to 
thy own immediate situation, that, by a discreet and 
timely consideration, thoumayst avoid some of the dan- 
gers to which I think thou art likely to be exposed. 
Thy time of life, and the time of a young man's engag- 
ing in the world for himself, is attended with many 
snares. Gilded prospects, which are calculated to de- 
ceive the inexperienced mind, if not strictly on its 
watch, are apt to present ; and a state of innocence 
liable to be interrupted, if not lost, which cannot be 
recovered but through deep suffering. 

I apprehend tliou art favoured to have a mother 
tenderly exercised in her spirit for thy good. This is a 
first-rate blessing. This was my case ; and the care 
and counsel of my dear mother, when I was very 
young, I believe, made impressions which have never 
been erased. She taught me early to know that I was 
not my own, nor at my own disposal ; and that, if I 
would be safe and happy, I must look to the Lord for 
counsel. Now this I wish for thee. In all thy move- 
ments, be sure keep this in mind. It will, I trust, be an 
inestimable treasure to thee ; confirming, in thy happy 
experience, that the fear of the Lord is a fountain of 
life, preserving from the snares of death. When temp- 
tations, of whatever description, assail, forget not the 
fear of the Lord ; that thereby thou mayst be favoured 
to witness preservation, and escape. Be in earnest to 
be good ; — the only way to be happy. If, through un- 
watchfulness at any time, thou art in any degree over- 
come, be sure thou be willing to come under condem- 
nation, and bear the chastening hand for disobedience : 
be willing to endure affliction for transgression, and do 
not flinch from it. Let it have its appointed season, 
and the dispensation of condemnation will have a refin- 



ADDRESSED TO THE YOUNG. 45 

Ing tendency, and thou wilt be likely to come up from 
the washing-pool, from time to time, with increased 
strength to resist succeeding temptations. We must 
not expect to be exempt from these. Bearing this re- 
proof and chastisement will give thy mind weight and 
solidity ; and thou wilt, I trust, come to be less and less 
susceptible of the allurements of the trifling things of 
the world, and thou wilt be more and more enabled to 
set a right value upon things. Unlawful things, and 
trifling things, will come to have their proper charac- 
ter stamped upon them, in thy view ; and thou wilt be 
likely to increase in thy love for quietness, watchfulness, 
and meditation. As we are sincere and in earnest, al- 
though the root of evil as well as of good lies deep in 
the heart, we may find that, as things of an outward 
nature are permitted to be snares and baits to our 
minds ; so, many things of an outward nature are per- 
mitted to be religiously helps and comforts, and a 
strength to us, in our journey through time to an ever- 
lasting home. Thou wilt find that it is good to prefer 
the acquaintance of those who, thou believest, sincere- 
ly fear God, and to read such books as tend to bring our 
attention home, and to strengthen this fear in our own 
hearts. Light and frothy company, and light and fro- 
thy books, though specious, thou wilt find wound the 
peace of the mind, estrange it from the fear of which I 
have been speaking, and indispose to seriousness and 
heavenly-mindedness. 

God is the source and centre of happiness. In pro- 
portion as we yield ourselves to things which the Light 
he has afforded us testifies against, in the secret of the 
soul, we go from Him, and go into confusion ; and so 
miss of the mercies, the favours, the consolations, which 
He is permitting those to partake of, who dread noth- 
ing so much as losing his divine approbation, and the 
sweetness resulting from it. Do not be halting, and 
double-minded, 1 entreat thee ; but yield thyself up to 



46 LETTERS AND OTHER PAPERS 

be a consistent Friend, to speak, act, and appear as 
such, and I believe thou wilt be blest. 

When things present, bring them to the Light : if 
they will bear the test, we may conclude they make 
for lasting peace ; if they will not, they make for per- 
plexity, and, sooner or later, for distress. 

My heart desires the illumination and strengthening 
of thy mind, to follow that which adorns the humble 
Christian, and to flee that which leavens into the spirit 
and friendship of the world, and ends in disappointment 

and sorrow. Dear now is the time. Learn to 

weigh things correctly : often consult the pure witness 
in thy own heart ; mark well and attentively what it 
leads to, and what it leads from ; and may the blessing 
of preservation attend thee, is my heart's desire. 
Thy well-wishing and affectionate friend, 

W. G. 



As thou art about finishing thy apprenticeship, 

I have had it at times on my mind, to express a few 
things in writing before we part ; as what is written 
sometimes remains longer under notice than what is 
spoken, and may be occasionally referred to, in moments 
of affectionate recollection of those with whom, and 
under whose care, so considerable and so important a 
portion of time has been passed. 

I have no reason to think that thy coming to live 
with us was wrong ; and I think it no small privilege 
that we have got through, so as to love one another at 
the conclusion ; and I hope that, as we are preserved 
to desire well for ourselves, in tbe best sense, we shall 
continue, at seasons, to remember one another with 
pleasure and affection. 

As to business, I hope thou hast attained a pretty 
competent knowledge of it ; such as will, with humility 



ADDRESSED TO THE YOUNG. 



47 



and industry, under the divine blessing, promote thy 
getting, in due time, comfortably established for thyself. 
But my principal object, at present, is thy preservation 
out of those things which hinder or retard an advance- 
ment in the Truth ; and if we miss of that, how transi- 
tory, and of how little value, is every thing else. 

Thou hast much to be thankful for in the inestima- 
ble favour of a religious parent, who has solicitously 
cared for thy best welfare ; and I think thy mind has 
been, through outward and inward means, so imbued 
with a sense of what is good and excellent, that, if thou 
art properly watchful, thou wilt be blest with an in- 
crease of spiritual knowledge and spiritual strength, 
and of capacity to overcome those propensities to which 
by nature we are prone. In order to this, I beseech 
thee in an especial manner, to be careful what compa- 
ny thou joinest with. I think thy own happiness much 
depends upon it. It was rather before thy time of life 
that my mind became seriously arrested, and a desire 
raised in me after the knowledge of substantial good. 

This good, dear -, is to be known, I believe, by 

submission to the cross of Christ, under which the di- 
vine light breaks in upon the mind with sweet instruc- 
tion, to our edification and help. Though in this pro- 
cess our own wills are frequently opposed, yet it is here 
we are made acquainted with that which nothing else 
can give us. I believe the experience of many has prov- 
ed this to be true. Suffer therefore, nobody to deceive 
thee, or tempt thee to believe that there is any other way 
to be happy. In submission to the refining discipline of 
the cross of Christ, the mind is prepared to receive good 
from the divine hand, both inward and outward good, 
and to receive it with true relish and with thankfulness; 
and I think we shall not become happy without it. As 
the mind, by this refining submission, is brought into a 
state of fitness to receive, I believe that divine mercy 
and goodness is ready to bestow ; and here a precious 
state is known. And as thou seest things thus, thou 



£ 



* 



48 LETTERS, &C 

wilt find that it must, indeed, be good company, to be 
better than no company ; and thou wilt find that too 
many young men, as well as older ones, are too much 
unacquainted with the state I have mentioned, and 
are more in speculation and reasoning than in living 
experience. But I entreat thee to keep to thy own bu- 
siness, and the peace of thy own mind ; that is more to 
thee than any thing else : keeping steadily to meetings, 
and to the practices and conduct of faithful Friends. 
This will, I believe, tend to keep thee in favour both 
with God and man ; and I believe that thou hardly 
needest fear doing well also in outward things. And 
as thou art favoured, more and more, to know what 
inward peace and quiet are, thou wilt be more afraid 
of those who know not what the truth is by experi- 
ence. The way of Truth, I believe, increases in bright- 
ness as we walk on faithfully in it, in humble submis- 
sion to its discoveries. Here the creature is abased 
and kept in a teachable state, and those discoveries 
made, and that establishment known, which are no 
otherwise to be come at. Therefore mind, I beseech 
thee, the discoveries of Truth; and if, through unwatch- 
fulness or infirmity, or natural propensity, thou at any 
time slippest aside, be diligent, by repentance and sub- 
mission to the rod, to get thy peace restored. Oh ! the 
danger of letting commissions and omissions gather one 
upon another, for want of coming under the washing, 
purifying dispensation of the Spirit of Truth. How 
many have wofully missed it herein, and incurred a 
hardened state of mind, unsusceptible of the tendering 
impressions of good. But I desire thy preservation, and 
that thou mayest know an establishment in the blessed, 
unchangeable Truth. 

In true love, 

Thy sincere Friend, 

W. G 



EXTRACT OF A LETTER, &C. 49 

Extract of a Letter to two young Men. 

1815. — 6 mo. 9. I think my sincere desire is, that 
the Father of mercies may take you and preserve you 
under his gracious care ; and so renew, from time to 
time, his enlightening influence on your minds, as to 
enable you clearly to perceive the transcendant ex- 
cellency that there is in the Truth ; and to engage you 
to prefer it, and your advancement in it, to every other 
thing. It is cause of real satisfaction to me, that you 
are capable of business, and inclined to. be industrious 
and persevering. I think your attention to these law- 
ful and commendable pursuits, under due regulations 
and restrictions, may not only prevent your active minds 
from being drawn out after things less innocent, but 
furnish you with ability to be useful to others. Never- 
theless, I wish to remind and warn you, that tempta- 
tions will not be wanting : the enemies of your own 
house, the propensities of our nature, will closely beset 
you in one shape, or other, in one direction or other, 
adapting the bait to the circumstances,.disposition, turn, 
and inclination. 

Under this persuasion, how solicitous I am that you 
may be circumspect, and maintain a daily watch ; so 
that preservation may be experienced on every hand. 
Often bear in mind, I tenderly entreat you, that our 
great and bountiful Creator's view, in the formation of 
his creature man, was to make him completely happy, 
by the enjoyment of Himself, his own presence, his own 
love, light, and peace : so that our greatest wisdom is 
to aim continually at this point, which is the great end 
of our being. If we are thus preserved, we shall endea- 
vour to bear the trials, afflictions, and disappointments 
of this life, in such a manner as may bring us, day by 
day, nearer, and nearer, and nearer to God, who is the 
perpetual fountain of happiness and of consolation. In 
like manner, we shall endeavour to enjoy prosperity 



50 EXTRACT OF A LETTER, &C. 

and the comforts of this life, and the many blessings 
which surround us, in such a sweet, thankful, humble 
frame of spirit, as will be well pleasing in the divine 
sight. We may be benefited, I believe, even by pros- 
perity as well as by adversity, if the mind be kept in a 
state suited to our dependent condition; for dependent 
indeed we are, every moment of our days. Thus we 
may be brought on our journey, whether longer or 
shorter ; so as that, whenever the end comes, either in 
middle or more advanced age, we may enter, through 
the divine mercy, into the fruition of that state, where 
there is neither want, sickness, nor pain ; and where all 
tears are for ever wiped away. 

We cannot too often look at things after this manner : 
we ought to do it daily, or oftener than the day. It 
does not unfit us for the concerns of time ; but it leads 
us to give the preference where it is so justly due, and 
where our interest requires us. It leads us to desire, 
in sincerity of heart, that divine goodness will be near 
us, and help us in all states and conditions, and under 
all our temptations and trials ; so that we may not lose 
our hold of good, but may continually advance, as our 
days spend and pass away, towards that which is the 
end and perfection of our beings 



(51 ) 



CHAP. V. 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS WRITTEN FROM THE 
YEAR 1800 TO 1811 ; WITH SOME OTHER 

PAPERS. 

1800. — 5th mo. 18. We are again come up to the 
yearly meeting ; not, I trust, that we think, or thought 
before we set out, ourselves of much consequence here; 
but wish to think it a favour that we are once more per- 
mitted to mingle with Friends in their annual solemnity. 
Yet I remember that after all, we must, after partak- 
ing of the strength derived from the exercise and con- 
cern of the lovers of the cause, retire into our own little- 
ness ; live, if we do live, upon our own little morsel ; 
and depend for daily help and daily supplies, as well as 
for final succour and acceptance, upon the mercy and 

" favour of Him who knows all our infirmities ; and 
who knows how far some of us are from that heavenly, 
redeemed state, which I believe many of us would glad- 
ly arrive at, however far we may yet be from a due 
willingness to submit to the terms. Well, my beloved 
friend, may the sweetness of divine consolation be thy 
experience, to enliven thy declining years, support thee 
amidst the varied conflicts allotted, and sweeten the 
bitter cups which the diversified stage admits of to the 

' travellers who are passing over it. 

I remember at this time, a nice young man. Many 
dangers attend such as he is ; a lively, pleasant activity 
for business ; and no doubt many ready to associate with 
him. May he wisely remember how easy it is for the 
mind to be drawn into things, the enjoyment whereof 
is attended with no true sweetness, and which produce 
flatness and barrenness, if not bitterness in the end of 



52 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

them. May he remember, none are safe companions 
who have not the tender fear of God before their eyes ; 
who do not endeavour to yield their minds to that cross 
which brings into exercise and conflict, and forbids a 
rest in sensual gratifications, which are vanity, and 
afford no substantial and enduring comfort. 

I have thought that many would like to feel the com- 
forts of religion, but miss it from expecting to find some 
great thing to begin with ; whereas, perhaps the way 
appointed for most, is to begin with something very 
little ; and it would be well, when our minds are ex- 
ercised and grieved that we feel little or no capacity 
towards good, to consider whether there is not some- 
thing manifested that we are not yielding to. Perhaps 
this is the very thing which is to be the door of entrance 
into the path of life, and of increasing consolation, and 
experience of good. 

1802. — 8 mo. 6. One thing I seem inclined to men- 
tion for thy encouragement ; and that is, to request, af- 
fectionately, that thou wilt not let discouragements 
take place, as to the attendance of meetings for disci- 
pline at a distance, now that your borders as a quar- 
terly meeting are enlarged, and the remoteness may be 
an additional bar to thy going. I believe thy company 
will be strengthening and encouraging to the rightly- 
concerned present, and their company reviving and 
consoling to thee. Let not thy deafness discourage 
thee : thy being, in measure, gathered into thy own ex- 
ercise, will, 1 believe, help forward the cause. Even 
the countenance of an Israelite, I believe, strengthens 
many a drooping mind ; and there are opportunities, 
now and then, though it may not be our lot to be very 
active, of manifesting on whose side we are. So that 
I am inclined, from some persuasion of its usefulness 
and fitness, to encourage those who, with thyself, sin- 
cerely love the cause of Truth, to keep close toji pub- 
licly, even in declining days, as to age. Indeed? I have 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 53 

been of the mind for some time, that if things go on 
well, the more active part in our meetings for disci- 
pline will not always fall on those far advanced in 
years ; but they will probably often sit by, and, like 
careful fathers and mothers, encourage by their pre- 
sence and by their weighty spirits, the younger and 
middle-aged to come up in and maintain their respec- 
tive ranks ; and now and then, in the language of ex- 
perience, put in a few words, well-seasoned and well- 
timed, to the increasing of the weight and solemnity. 
O ! the use of the company of fathers and mothers, my 
beloved friend, in our Society. O ! the pleasantness of 
seeing the hoary head in our assemblies, having kept 
the faith, having loved the Truth, and believed in it to 
the end. 

1803. — 6 mo. 3. It was not pleasant to me that I 
did not either see or write to thee before I. left London, 
which was not until the 28th. I have repeatedly had 
in view the expectation I gave thee of a little explana- 
tion of my views concerning the investigation of certain 
points which have often been considered as mysterious, 
and which I should gladly express in such a manner as 
would tend to thy satisfaction. 

I am inclined to believe that it is not the design of 
Unerring Wisdom, that the mind should be satisfied 
about these things, by the exertions of its own powers ; 
but that He has wisely reserved to himself the commu- 
nication of this satisfaction, dispensing it to the minds 
of his creatures, when, how, and in what degree he 
sees meet, from time to time. It seems that a real 
progress in divine knowledge is very differently to be 
attained and experienced, from what may generally 
be expected and desired by mankind. If any man 
will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine. — See 
John, vii. 17. 

It is very gratifying to the natural mind, to have a 
very full and comprehensive view of the subject of re- 



54 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

ligion, at the beginning of the work ; hut the religion of 
our Lord and Saviour Jesus Ghrist appears to be very 
differently intended to be opened to the mind ; begin- 
ning, frequently, with a little light or manifestation of 
the divine will, as to some point or part of duty. And 
as obedience is yielded to this small manifestation, let 
it be respecting whatsoever it may, greater and great- 
er degrees of light and of strength are afforded, lo fol- 
low on to know more and more of the divine will, and 
of divine things. This is very humbling to the natural 
mind, which would willingly be getting on faster : but 
the real, divine manifestations of Light and of Life must 
be humbly waited for, and the mind clothed with reve- 
rence and fear, lest it get on in its own wisdom, and mix 
something of its own with the communications of divine 
Light and Life ; for it is well to remember, that " in 
Christ, (the Word) was Light, and that Light was the 
Life of men.*' Now as the mind is really favoured to 
believe that all good comes from God ; and that its 
own conceivings and searchings, in its own wisdom and 
strength, will end in disappointment, and short of that 
clearness and evidence which truly satisfies, it is 
brought into a humble, waiting state ; and in this re- 
duced, dependent, humble state, as any thing is made 
known from the source of all true good, I believe a 
sweet, substantial, satisfying something will attend it, 
which all the exertions of the mind, in its own wisdom 
and activity, cannot afford. And as this comes to be 
really known and believed, a fear possesses the mind of 
entering into abstract speculation concerning divine 
things ; preferring rather to wait, in humility and re- 
verence, upon God; not doubting but He will be pleas- 
ed, if we yield obedience, day by day, to the manifes- 
tations of his light in our minds, to make to us such dis- 
coveries as He judges best and most suitable for us. 

Now, as the Holy Scriptures are read in this disposi- 
tion of mind, depending on God, through the spirit of 
Christ in the soul, for the opening of them to our un- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 55 

derstandings, we may, I believe, often be sweetly re- 
freshed, comforted, and edified, even in reading a very 
few verses. And if we meet with any thing which is 
not quite clear to us, we may rather feel disposed to 
leave it, than to reason, search, and contrive concerning 
it. Thus thou wilt perceive that 1 believe the religion 
of Christ to be a religion of faith in Him ; and that, as 
in Him are hid all the treasures of wisdom and know- 
ledge, so, as w r e are brought into a state of true wait* 
ing and dependence upon Him, and upon the manifes- 
tations of his spirit on the soul, we are in the way to 
be rightly introduced, from time to time, into such de- 
grees of knowledge in divine things, as is truly best for 
us, and best adapted to the state of our minds ; and 
that it is not consistent with divine wisdom to commu- 
nicate the treasures of heavenly mysteries, but as the 
mind becomes, through true obedience, refined and pre- 
pared for the reception of them. 

1804. — 7 mo. We find, as you do, the present scene 
and state of things greatly chequered. Many favours 
and many trials are our lot ; and I am ready, at times, 
to wish that I may not expect to find it otherwise, ha- 
ving little room for it. If I may judge from the fifty 
years which are passed over my head, what appears 
to be wanting is a more settled and firm abiding, where 
neither the storms and tempests, nor the sunshine of 
time and temporal matters can fully shake or move. 
For this experience I think 1 do long, and in measure, 
I think, pray that this longing may never, never be 
lost, until a perfect, abiding establishment be, through 
heavenly goodness, experienced. If the tossings and 
exercises which are met with, both by you and us, may 
but happily contribute to this establishment, what a 
favour and mercy will it be. 

Is not the great thing which is wanting in our religi- 
ous Society, an individual travail, a close attention to 
individual duty, whereby we should more experience a 

F 



56 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

fitness and qualifications for collective service, as well 
as more availingly contribute to the advancement and 
spreading of Truth ? But whilst 1 lament my own lan- 
guor, I wish not, my dear friend, to discourage thee ; 
hut rather that we may unitedly he animated to lay 
hold of every offer of best help ; and persevere, in in- 
creased and increasing hope and confidence, to the end. 

1806. — 3 ?no. We have of late time had to wade 
along under many exercises and trials, not fully known 
to any but ourselves; yet I think we have cause hum- 
bly to acknowledge that we have been permitted to 
hold up our heads, and not altogether to sink under dis- 
couragement. If the varied conflicts which we have, 
from time to time, to endure in our different allotments, 
do but happily tend to increase our acquaintance with 
the Supreme Good, and to strengthen our confidence in 
the divine superintending care and protection, it will be 
well ; and we may have to acknowledge that it is good 
for us that we have been afflicted. I wish to guard 
against unprofitable bewailing ; and rather press on, in 
a grateful remembrance that we have many favours 
and blessings intermixed with the difficulties of the day. 

It is, indeed, a nice thing, and requiring a portion of 
best wisdom, to know how to move along in temporal 
concerns. To be suitably alive to the useful discharge 
of our duty as to temporal matters, and yet to have the 
mind so detached from them as to have the one thing 
needful perpetually before us, is a most desirable attain- 
ment. Uncertainty is so stamped on all visible enjoy- 
ments, that we had need, indeed, to be solicitous to 
have our minds established on something bevond them 
all. 

1806. — 11 mo. 27. I consider it particularly valu- 
able to young men, to be placed, not only where they 
may be learning a pleasant and respectable business, 
which, under Providence, may be the means of pro- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 57 

curing them a comfortable maintenance and provision 
in the world ; but where their amusements and en- 
gagements, in the hours of relaxation from business, will 
be likely to be of the innocent and rational, as well as 
religiously-consistent kind. To fill up the hours of lei- 
sure rightly is a nice thing; and I hope thou wilt be 
especially careful of it, particularly in thy reading. I 
wish thee to read what thy master and mistress ap- 
prove : such things as may be promotive of thy pre- 
servation in religious tenderness ; and, when not of a re- 
ligious nature, such things as will improve thy under- 
standing, and enrich thy mind with profitable know- 
ledge. 

It is not unpleasant that the ground which was once 
my grandfather's, father's, and afterwards mine, is be- 
come the site of a meeting-house for Friends of Brigh- 
ton : a place where it was, about fifty years ago, not 
very unlikely, looking outwardly, that there would be 
hardly any Friends to hold a meeting. I can remem- 
ber, when I was a boy, sitting on a First-day, by the 
widow Wilkins's fire-side, to hold our meeting : perhaps 
about five or six of us in number. There is great cause 
for encouragement to Friends, both youth and elder, to 
be faithful to known duty ; then, I believe, we shall in- 
deed be blessed with increase both in numbers, strength, 
and dignity, with the dew of heaven and the fatness of 
the earth. Very early in life we may do something 
for this great and noblest of all causes, the promotion 
of Truth upon the earth. Abstaining from every 
appearance of evil, will give to a very youth a cer- 
tain dignity of character; and will be accompanied 
with humility, which, indeed, is a most excellent adorn- 
ing, and without which other qualifications and graces 
lose much of their beauty. 

1810. — 1 mo. 21. ~ Thus it is : we pass away 

one after another, and the place which has known us 
shall know us no more. I long that those in the vigour 



58 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 



of life may increasingly bend to every discovery and 
manifestation of duty, which is the way to increase in 
religious strength. 1 think I never saw, more than 
lately, the usefulness and necessity of diligence to ac- 
quaint ourselves with that divine good, which alone can 
console and sustain the soul in the hour of trial and ex- 
tremity ; and I feel, whilst I write, desires that thou 
mayst, for one, prize the present day. Love retire- 
ment, and frequent, solemn introversion of mind ; that 
so thou mayst increasingly see thy duty and service in 
religious society, and be careful to do it with Christian 
magnanimity and faithfulness, showing, on all occasions, 
on whose side thou art, that thou mayst be an example 
and encouragement to others to do likewise. Time 
spends apace, and I am desirous thou mayst be a truly 
religious character in your large meeting. O ! the 
beauty of an entire consistency. How does the exam- 
ple of such operate, within the sphere in which they 
move ! How does it avail to their own individual good, 
the help of others, and the prosperity of the cause of 
lruth! 

1810.— 6 mo. 24. I understand thou hast a fresh 
companion, which, I apprehend, will be agreeable to 
thee ; and I wish you may be strengthened to encou- 
rage one another in faithfulness to the requirings of 
Truth, and not the contrary ; which is sometimes un- 
happily the case with young men taking countenance 
and encouragement from one another, in smaller or 
greater deviations from the simplicity of our noble pro- 
fession. A sight and sense whereof, I believe, thou 
hast been favoured with; and keeping faithful to what 
thou seest, is the way to have the understanding en- 
larged, and to see more into the law of liberty preci- 
ous liberty, wherein the mind is raised, in measure, 
above the bondage of this perishing, unstable world. I 
desire thy preservation in innocence, and under the 
teaching of the best Preceptor ; and though it may, at 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 59 

times, be to our humiliation, and we may be led along 
in a path of self-denial, yet, remember, none ever re- 
pent having timely and early submitted to his disci- 
pline ; but many, many have to lament that they de- 
layed the submission of their wills too long, and thereby 
increased their own difficulties. 

1810. — 7 mo. 25. Those manifestations intended for 
real, solid, and permanent good, are oftentimes in the 
cross to our own nature : but, as yielded to and obey- 
ed, they tend to change our nature, even to introduce 
that nature which does the will of our Heavenly Fa- 
ther with delight. And I believe such are always 
blessed, and partake of substantial good, though it may 
be often mixed with trial — such being the terms of this 
life : " In the world ye shall have tribulation." But 
remember the foregoing words : " these words 1 have 
spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace." 

1810. — 10 mo. 2. I noticed thy remarks on the dif- 
ficulty of keeping the mind under the divine influence. 
I believe this is not in our power, or by any means at 
our command ; but yet I think much depends on 
watchfulness, and religious, tender care of our move- 
ments. As we keep humble and watchful, I believe 
the influences of good are more perceived and longer 
retained : the mind becomes more and more in love 
with them and desirous of them, and more afraid of 
things which indispose it to wait for them ; and so it is 
that our nature becomes changed, and we, prepared 
to run the ways of the Lord's requirings ; and our 
minds to be content with what is according to his will. 

So, my dear *, do not look too far before thee, 

nor suflfer the suggestions of discouragement to prevail 
unprofitably ; but remember, " Greater is He that is 
in thee, than he that is in the world." I desire thy en- 
couragement to look to the Lord, and to believe that 
He will furnish the willing and obedient mind with 



60 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

ability to take one step after another in the way which 
is well-pleasing to Him, until a capacity is known to 
walk with a degree of bJessed firmness and acceptance ; 
although there is no state to be expected here beyond 
a state of humble watchfulness. May it be the happy 
experience of us all. 

1811.— 8 mo. 7. I hope, if permitted to accomplish 
your union, that you will be a comfort to each other, 
and that your principal care will be to walk in humi- 
hty, reverence, and fear ; knowing, as we cannot but 
know, if we be wise, that uncertainty marks the path 
of man, and that our most precious and endearing en- 
joyments m the outward, are only rightly held and pos- 
sessed, as they are held with humble gratitude. 

It would be very pleasant to know well 

settled : not that 1 consider that he may be losing time, 
unless it be in delaying to take up the cross, and follow, 
in humility and resignation of heart, the Saviour of men. 
1 am ready to think that the likeliest way for many 
young men to get forward, as to an establishment in 
the world, is to seek earnestly and carefully after the 
pearl of greatest price, trusting in the divine promise: 
" Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, 
and all these things shall be added unto you.' I ra- 
ther think that many who may be steady, respectable 
characters, yet not submitting to all the terms needful 
for those who desire, above all things, to secure to 
themselves the divine blessing, prevent that substantial 
advancement, even in temporal things, which they 
would more easily be favoured with, if they were more 
weighty in spirit, and more fit to be placed in respect- 
able stations at the head of families, having more or 

fewer young men under them. Could come 

enough to put his trust rightly in Him, to whom belongs 
the earth and the fulness thereof, and whose are the 
cattle upon a thousand hills, I think something would 



EXTRACTS OP LETTERS. 61 

open ; and it would be a comfort to see him, thus trust- 
ing and thus depending, settled for himself. 

1811. — 10 mo. As time passes over, we find fresh 
and fresh exercises brought over our minds ; and I be- 
lieve it is hardly safe to expect it will be otherwise, 
whilst we are conversant with the vicissitudes of time. 
The infirmities of our nature are a great trial ; and we 
are very liable to have an addition, from unexpected 
circumstances, over which we do not appear to have 
any control ; but, as in the outward, clouds and sun- 
shine succeed each other, so it is with us. And 1 am in 
degree comforted at this time, in some little capacity 
to salute thee as a beloved elder sister, in the faith and 
tribulations of our present pilgrimage; in the tribula- 
tions common to mankind, and in the faith vouchsafed 
to (he humble, exercised Christian. It is a very pre- 
cious thing, that, although at times and seasons we are 
permitted to feel ourselves very destitute, tried, and 
deserted ; and to be, as it were, enveloped in our own 
nothingness and infirmity ; yet, that at other times, a 
sweet, sensible quiet is witnessed, and a degree of con- 
fidence raised in the sustaining confidence of the Lord 
our God. Here there is no desire to feel ourselves 
strong and self-sufficient, or to feel the creature exalt- 
ed ; but it is felt to be a mercy, and precious favour, 
that we can lean upon the divine arm of power, and 
trust in the source of true consolation. Here the waves 
and the billows are stilled ; and we are, as it were, rea- 
dy to say, " What has become of our sorrows ?" 

Well, my endeared friend, I believe thou hast abun- 
dant cause to trust in the Lord, and put thy confidence 
in the Holy One of Israel ; inasmuch as He has been 
thy fear and thy dread, thy shield, and the lifter up of 
thy head. What have we else to trust to ; however 
encompassed, however tossed and perplexed ? And I 
believe thou knowest, that sometimes, after a season of 
rather peculiar trial, comes a day of distinguishingly 



62 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

refreshing sweetness and calm. It is a great consola- 
tion, that sweetness and peaceful enjoyment are not 
inseparable from outward prosperity. Indeed, we do 
well humbly to rejoice and be glad, that tribulation 
produceth the fruits of righteousness, if rightly endur- 
ed : but our nature shrinks from suffering. 



Thy case and situation seem to require the 

kind attention of thy friends. Thy frequent neglect 
of meetings for worship bespeaks thy mind to be not in 
a tender, religious frame ; but unguarded, and too in- 
different about thy own everlasting good. There was 
a time, I believe, when thy mind was much more sen- 
sible of the benefit of attending meetings ; and when 
thou wouldst have been afraid to be absent, except 
something particular prevented thy attendance. Now 
it seems a light matter : seldom more than once on a 
first-day, sometimes not once ; and seldom on a week- 
day. It is not the way to gain strength in the best 
things, to neglect opportunities of waiting on the Lord. 
Remember the Scripture saying : " They that wait 
upon the Lord shall renew their strength." But they 
who neglect to wait upon Him, are in danger of having 
their minds dissipated, and turned from good, and of 
coming to have a pleasure and delight in those things 
which once they esteemed not worth pursuing — things 
which bring no solid peace to the mind. These are 
accompanied with a sting, and with bitter remorse, 
unless the pure witness in the mind be so stifled and 
buried, that it be not heard nor understood, but blind- 
ness, darkness, and insensibility prevail. This is a 
dreadful state ; but I trust this is not thy situation. Yet, 
I think, if thou dost not speedily turn about, thou art in 
danger of losing the sense thou once may est have had 
of the sweetness of a religious life and conversation. 
Light, unguarded company, is liable to be a sad snare 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 



63 



to thee. Evil communications corrupt good manners ; 
and we may be insensibly leavened, if not upon our 
guard, into the nature and spirit of those who do not 
walk in innocency. Thus, one thing after another, of 
which thy judgment may have been convinced, may be 
called in question ; plainness and sincerity of speech, 
plainness of apparel, simplicity and innocency of man- 
ners, may all be departed from ; and thy poor mind be 
exposed to many, many dangers and temptations, from 
which thou mightest have been preserved, if thou hadst 
carefully maintained the watch ; — if thou hadst fled 
from every appearance of evil, and been afraid of hav- 
ing the tenderness and sensibility of thy mind hurt, by 
touching and partaking of things of which thou once 
sawest the evil and inconsistency. 

Do not be deceived, or believe any one to be thy 
true friend who would rejoice to see thee dishonour thy 
profession, or set light by any tender, religious scruple. 
It is a great favour and blessing to have a tender mind, 
fearful of doing any thing to offend our Maker ; and 
those who know not the value of this tenderness of mind, 
and would willingly rob us of it, are to be guarded 
against as dangerous companions. 

I do not mention this because I believe thou hast not 
once known it to be true ; but I believe thou hast open- 
ed an ear to that which, if followed, will lead thee in- 
to confusion, if not to ruin ; confusion as to the state of 
thy mind, and as to thy profession as a Friend ; and, 
perhaps, confusion as to thy outward concerns. 

1 see nothing but that the situation at might af- 
ford thee a competent livelihood, if properly minded ; 
but it will require care. It will, 1 believe, require 
thee to be frugal and careful in thy expenses, careful 
of thy time, regular and punctual in doing thy busi- 
ness, and steady in attention to it. If thou art too of- 
ten from home, thou mayst lose more in two or three 
hours than will be got again in a week. By all means, 
be consistent. Do not seem one thing, and be another. 



64 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 



Be an industrious tradesman, and mind thy business. 
Let hardly any thing call thee from it, except thv reli- 
gious duty ; and take care to give a suitable preference 
to this duty, above every thing. This will make thee 
careful how thou conductest thyself in thy business, with 
punctuality, honesty, integrity, and humility. Thou 
wilt fear to dishonour thy profession in thy words or in 
thy ways, and this is the way for thy neighbours to 
have a confidence in thee ; for though some may scoff 
at, and deride the way of Truth and of simplicity, yet 
all like to have to do with those whom they can depend 
upon, and who they really believe are preserved by a 
principle of integrity, from doing them an injury, even 
if they had it in their power. 

■ Do not despise little things, as some may call them ; 
remembering, "he thatdespiseththeday of small things, 
shall fall by little and little." And bv little and little 
thou mayst get so far from the right way, as never 
more to return to it ; thou mayst depart from the way 
of innocence, the way of plainness, the way of humility, 
the way of safety, so far as to have, in the end, to lie 
down in sorrow, and to wish that thou hadst never 
known better things, rather than, having known them, 
to depart from them, and trample upon them. 

I believe thy situation very dangerous, and requir- 
ing particular watchfulness and resolution: because 
thou hast, I believe, opened thy heart to some things 
of an evil tendency ; and that will, if not speedily and 
firmly stood against, tend to the blinding and darken- 
ing of thy understanding. 

I think I need not make any apology for this friend- 
ly freedom ; as I did not see that I could be clear in 
my duty to thee, without submitting a few hints to thy 
very serious perusal. 

With desires for thy real good, 

Thy respectful Friend, 

W. G. 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS, 65 



Religion is a very serious thing, and by a great man 
is, I think,, thus defined : " Religion is the fear of God. 
and its demonstration good works : and Faith is the 
root of both." Religion, therefore, taken in this sense, 
which I think is the true sense, is one thing : profession 
is another. A man may, at his own option, and against 
conviction, change his profession : but his religion he 
cannot so easilv change. If a man is religious, he fears 
God his Creator : fears to offend Him in thought, word, 
or deed, and considers himself bound to walk conform- 
ably to this fear. Now. according to the degree of 
true light upon the understanding, is a man's religion. 
He cannot, at his option, change the convictions of this 
light ; though he may act in opposition to them, and 
thereby incur condemnation. If a man does not fear 
God. I conclude he has no religion : if he does fear God. 
and walks answerablv thereto, he endeavours to act 
according to the best evidence afforded to his under- 
standing, as to what is, and what is not, agreeable to 
the will of his Creator concerning him. Thus, if I am 
not mistaken, a man cannot, at his own option, change 
his religion: although, as he can act in opposition to 
what is really the religion of his judgment, he can, if 
he be not conscientious, change his profession. 

We believe, as a religious Society, that the duty of 
a religious man is to endeavour to know his dutv as a 
Christian, both as to matter and mode, and then care- 
fully and conscientiously to do it. Forms of profession 
may be various : but the truly pious, of all denomina- 
tions, are, I believe, near akin. They unite in one 
grand and fundamental respect : — a sincere desire that 
their whole lives may be conformable to the will of 
their Creator. This desire embraces not only spiritual, 
but temporal things : and, with regard to their religion 
not only the life and substance, but also the form and 
profession of it. 



66 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 



It may well appear strange and wonderful to the be- 
lieving mind, that the sceptic should not discover it to 
be a more reasonable conclusion, that that Divine Be- 
ing, whom we contemplate as self-existent, omnipotent, 
and omnipresent, of infinite wisdom and goodness, the 
centre and essence of all created existence, in whom, 
therefore, we live, and move, and have our being, 
should be ever mindful of those rational creatures 
whom He has brought into existence ; — that it should 
not strike him, as consistent with a Being of infinite 
purity and infinite wisdom, who is ever inseparably 
near, to adapt his sensible influences to the varied cir- 
cumstances of a creature so fallible, so liable to error 
as man ; rather than to leave him to himself, to find 
his way through this life, and to conduct himself in it, 
by means of any faculties entrusted absolutely to him. 
That he has faculties, and a capacity entrusted to him, 
there need be no doubt ; but he has, surely, need of a 
regulating, superintending, all-intelligent preserver, to 
encourage, to check, to reprove, to animate, to stimu- 
late, to restrain, to cherish, to console, according to the 
various circumstances to which the creature mav be 
subject, either from causes over which it has no con- 
trol, or from the wanderings and errors incident to 
humanity. 

That there is such an influencing principle is the su- 
preme joy of the just, who live by faith ; and it may 
w r ell be matter of admiration to them, that the sceptic 
cannot believe that it exists, or that it is possible it 
should exist. Well, now, suppose the sceptic should 
begin to believe that such a thing is possible ; and then 
let him imagine, that some who have taken a different 
path to himself, have really found, by experience — by 
experience so often repeated as to have become un- 
doubted proof to them, that such a precious, such a 
powerful principle does exist ; and not only exist, but 
does act influentially for their good, to their humble 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 



67 



and thankful admiration. After this, is it not highly 

reasonable for him to conclude, that, in admitting the 
doubts which he has entertained, he has been unwise ! 
that he has shut up the way to his experiencing what 
others have come to know 

Suppose again, that those who have come to this 
experience, (for. after all. experience is the great baf> 
fler of speculation.) do find in the Scriptures abundant 
testimonies to an inward experience of this same living,, 
active., and influential principle in the hearts of others, 
which thev believe they have found in themselves, is it 
not highlv reasonable that thev should entertain an ex- 
traordinary value for these writings: and that, finding 
so much in them which they cannot but highly ap- 
prove, and which they cannot doubt the truth of. they 
are very fearful of underrating them, and therebv de- 
priving themselves of the help, the consolation,, and ad- 
vantage to be derived from them. These writings give 
their believing reader to understand, that this pure, ac- 
tive, influential, regulating principle., is the Spirit of 
Christ — the Spirit oflmmanueL God with us: in other 
words, that dispensation, revelation, or display of the 
divine nature, life, and power, which is adapted to the 
situation, the benefit, the exigencies, of created intelli- 
gencies. And these believing readers, finding that the 
power which acts in them, which influences, incite-, 
reproves, restrains, and comforts, eventually tends to 
good, they cannot doubt that it is divine — that is of 
God. Hence arises an increased value and esteem for 
these writings, as testifying of a divine principle so pre- 

us, and of the experience of others respecting it, and 
of its power and virtue, so corresponding with their 
own views and experience of its excellency, and of its 
refining, sanctifying tendency. 



( 68) 



CHAP. VI. 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS WRITTEN FROM THE YEAR 

1812 TO 1819. 

1812. — 1 mo. 4. Many are the ways by which our 
poor minds are liable to be brought into trouble; I 
think 1 know this, not only from the relation of others, 
but from my own repeated experience. Sometimes in- 
advertences of our own become a source of affliction 
and distress ; and sometimes this is accompanied with 
infirmity both of body and mind ; and, from these com- 
plicated causes, the poor creature is plunged into un- 
speakable perplexity, from which it sees no way or 
probability of escape ; and is hoping sometimes for re- 
lief one way, and sometimes another, but no permanent 
quiet can be obtained. Like the sea, that unstable 
element, whose billows run very high, and wave upon 
wave, so rest and quiet seem to have taken their leave 
of us. But as man did not form, or create himself, so, 
neither can he deliver or preserve himself. Yet, I be- 
lieve, in these seasons of deep distress, poor mortals are 
under the immediate and peculiar notice of the Most 
High ; and, in the language of one of his favoured ser- 
vants, we may say, " There is none so nigh sinking, but 
He puts his hand under their head." He knows all our 
difficulties and perplexities; He marks our solitary 
wanderings^ and sees the path which we take. O ! then, 
from whatever causes our distresses arise, whether ever 
so simple, or ever so complicated, it is good, it is safe, it 
is most wise to trust in Him, to cast our care upon Him, 
who knows our frame, and remembers that we are but 
dust ; and by whom, in the emphatic language of our 
blessed Lord, " the very hairs of our head are all num- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 69 

bered." The great thing is, and I hope, as thou ten- 
derly desirest it. thou wilt more and more experience it 
to be a truth ; the great thing is, to endeavour to be 
still and wait for his salvation, under a humble, but 
quiet sense of our own inability to help ourselves. Guard 
against impatience or activity, but crave to be favour- 
ed with stillness. Let the billows pass over, and wave 
upon wave ; but keep thou in the quiet habitation, and 
wait to see what will become of the storm. Do not 
imagine that thou canst still the tempest, nor attempt 
in thy own strength to do it ; but endeavour to stay thy 
mind on Him who formerly, when his poor disciples 
were in dismay, said to the wind and the waves, 
" Peace, be still ; and there was a great calm ; and 
they were filled with wonder ; and cried out, What 
manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea 
obey Him." 

1812. — 9 mo. 20. 1 think that, on both sides of the 
middle path of life, there is great danger of mixing with 
the spirit of the world. It is very observable, that 
abundance of the goodthings of this life, that ease, and 
large acquisitions of knowledge, have that tendency. 
On the other hand, where there is a great want of lite- 
rary qualification, where there is rusticity of manners, 
and a necessity to be plodding hard for a livelihood, 
and where temporal conveniences are but poorly sup- 
plied after all, there is a great liability for the mind to 
be let down into the same state, at least in degree, as 
we too often see amongst the poorer classes of the peo- 
ple at large. Not but that Truth, which is omnipotent 
to all good purposes, is fully equal to preserve in all 
right allotments. But how shall we in the middle 
stations, be sufficiently thankful that the " lines have 
fallen to us in pleasant places," — in profitable places, 
may I not say. 

It seems to be the great thing wanting in myself, and 
I suppose in the Society, a capacity rightly, and there- 



70 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

fore availingly, to pray ; but we must look forward, 
and press forward : having put our hands to the plough, 
it will not do to look back. 

That " we are not our own ;" that we are not to 
gird ourselves, and walk withersoever we list, is a truth 
so clear and evident to the enlightened mind, that it 
should be, I think, almost a first principle in education, 
in doctrine, in the habitual frame of the mind. But 
who are sufficient for these things? 

May you be favoured to get into that spot where, 
the eye being kept single, the body is full of light ; — - 
where the earnest desire and breathing of every one 
is, that no one may be wounded or hurt ; — where the 
willingness to part with selfish views is known ; — where 
the preservation of love, harmony, and sweetness, is 
felt to be more precious than any outward good ; and 
where the mind craves, above all things, that every 
movement may be agreeable to the will of our Heavenly 
Father, and tend to his honour and glory, and the pro- 
motion of the cause of peace and righteousness. And 
I sincerely question, whether there be any way in 
which we more acceptably serve Him, than when, in 
the transaction of our outward affairs, w T e are preserv- 
ed in meekness, quietness, and self-denial, with our eye 
and desire to Him for guidance, limitation, and protec- 
tion. 

1812. — 11 mo. 29. The principle of light, life, and 
power, as submitted to, more and more leads the 
awakened and dedicated mind out of a conformity to 
the maxims and manners of the world, by a path of 
humble self-denial, to the enjoyment of a peace which 
is substantial, sweet, and precious. Press after it, my 
dear friend : press into the enjoyment of it : whatsoever 
sacrifices are required, I entreat thee to make them 
through the renewings of best help. Do not embitter 
thy future days, by persevering in opposition to the clear 
manifestations of the light of Truth. Get not into ab- 
stract reasonings on things ; but eye the light, and fol- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS, 71 

low it, step by step, as the way is opened for thy com- 
plete deliverance. 

How precious it is, my dear friend, in important 
movements, to feel a humble, reverent, filial trust in 
the divine blessing on our undertakings ; and though, 
at times, we may not be favoured with very clear and 
strong light upon our path, yet, being preserved in a 
fear of offending, and in a sense that, without the di- 
vine blessing upon it, all our acquisitions and enjoy- 
ments will have a void, a painful void, here we are in 
the way of safety. There is, may 1 not say, an inde- 
scribable distinction between those who have really be- 
lieved in the reality of divine, inward, immediate com- 
munication to the soul, and those who have not. Faith 
in this divine gift is a most precious thing — a most val- 
uable treasure ; not to be trifled with ; not to be bar- 
tered away ; but to be reverently, humbly, and per- 
severingly treasured up, improved, and lived upon. 
Remember this, my dear friend; and may heavenly 
goodness be near to help, direct, and sustain thee. 
Amen. 

1813. — 2 mo, 18. Our principles are cal- 
culated to inspire love, esteem, and confidence ; inas- 
much, as they point to humility, a general, courteous 
behaviour to all, and to strict punctuality. How do 
I desire that # * and # may be favoured to keep lit- 
tle and thankful ; sensible what a favour it is to be en- 
abled to procure, by industry and attention, a comfort- 
able competency, and at the same time sensible also 
that this is not all that we want to make us truly useful 
and happy. Uncertainty attends the most flattering 
outward prospects. Young men engaging in business 
are much to be felt for and sympathized with, that they 
may be preserved from unprofitable depression on the 
one hand, and undue elevation on the other : happy if 
they can be preserved, using their best, honest, and up- 
right endeavours, whilst they feel a dependence on our 

g * 



72 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

Heavenly Father for the needful supplies of strength of 
body and mind ; of prudence, of discretion, and well- 
regulated affections and desires. 

1813. — 3 mo. 2. In the flowings of love, and in the 
enlargement or expansion of the mind, we may, I be- 
lieve, sometimes be ready to recommend writings which 
are really very estimable ; and yet in which, from the 
first word to the last, perhaps there is not a single point- 
ing to the Word nigh in the heart, the divine gift, or 
light of Christ. Does it not require great care how such 
are recommended ] I write with caution, not wishing 
to prevent any good ; but it wants to be more under- 
stood in the world, (and what if this be one of the great 
ends of our being raised up,) that it is not comprehend- 
ing sublime truths, even the truths of the Gospel, so 
much as seeing and knowing our own individual part 
of the great whole, that is the grand desideratum for us 
all ; and which, do we not allow, cannot any way be so 
well known, as by diligent attention to this divine gift? 
Attending to this divine gift in ourselves, and so being 
drawn and kept under its influence, it becomes our 
element, and we move healthfully and safely along in 
it. And in this element, not out of it, we may look at 
many things, and touch many things, perhaps without 
spiritual loss, and possibly with spiritual advantage ; but 
the danger and the loss seem to be from meddling with 
religious and spiritual things, out of this element. Keep- 
ing in this element, we are in the way of feeling the 
liberty of Truth, and its blessed restraints, as to touch- 
ing, tasting, or handling this, that, or the other thing, 
that is thrown in our way. 

1813. — 11 mo. 12. It is indeed occasion for thank- 
fulness, that thou art permitted to report so favourably, 
which I hope may continue to be the case, as thou art 
preserved desirous that thy days may be spent in humi- 
lity, watchfulness, and fear ; so that the blessing may 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 73 

attend thy honest and upright endeavours. There is a 
fear lest any right endeavours on our part should be 
wanting, which, I believe, is acceptable in the divine 
sight, and tends to preservation ; and there is an anx- 
iety and earnestness, which, I believe, wounds the re- 
ligious mind, and is not fruitful of good. So that the 
prayer formerly put up, is emphatically adapted to the 
Christian traveller of all generations : " Give me neither 
riches nor poverty, but feed me with food convenient 
for me." And I am glad thou art favoured to be con- 
nected with those who, whilst they are caring that tem- 
poral matters may be prudently and reputably ordered, 
are desirous of giving the upper hand to those things 
which perish not with the using ; but which are neces- 
sary to be sought after, cherished, and preferred, whe- 
ther our allotment, as to the outward, be in prosperity 
or adversity. I sincerely desire your preservation, and 
that the best blessing may attend and enrich your 
minds : so may the effects thereof be increasingly your 
happy experience ; even meekness, patience, content- 
ment, sweetness, love. 

1 am sorry for the account of poor 's miscon- 
duct. I am in hopes that separation and restraint from 
improper company may place her in a capacity to dis- 
cern more distinctly wherein true happiness consists, 
and the path which leads to it. Speaking on the sub- 
ject, 1 am reminded of the experience of that dignified 
disciple of the great Master, Isaac Penington, where I 
think he describes himself as in a state of mourning for 
all the miserable, however deservedly so. 

It was very pleasant to hear so agreeable an account 

f 9 f or whose preservation out of every kurtful 

thing we can unite with you in desire. And I wish he 
may be favoured to see what a privilege it is to be com- 
fortably introduced into business, without the hazard, 
to which many suffer themselves to be exposed, of con- 
vulsive shocks, wbich endanger both temporal and spi- 
ritual comfort He seems to have slidden into an esta- 



74 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

blishment very easily, and perhaps with as much en- 
couragement as is desirable. I hope nothing will be 
permitted to take him off his feet, either prosperity or 
adversity, for there are snares in both ; but that, by en- 
deavouring to appreciate the favours received, he may 
set a proper, not an improper, value upon them, and 
see the necessity of watchfulness in every stage of his 
progress, if he would be kept from wandering, and 
know an advancement in the pursuit and enjoyment of 
substantial good, temporally and spiritually. 

" Oh ! the long list of mercies undeserved, 
And oh ! what greater gifts are still reserved." 

So that there is abundant encouragement to those 
who are humbly in the pursuit of happiness, within the 
limits and appointment of that Wisdom and Goodness 
which are infinite. 

1815. — 2 mo. 16. In the first place, and preemi- 
nently, I am anxious, my dear, , to say, that if 

thou wert to be induced to leave , I should enter- 
tain little doubt but that an enemy had done it. When, 
through the permission of a kind and gracious Provi- 
dence, we are so situated as to be not only comfortably 
provided for, set down with comparative safety, and 
free from the risks to which many are exposed, which 
greatly agitate and prevent a religious growth ; but 
are also in the way to make a reasonable, and even a 
handsome, provision for that time of life, if permitted to 
reach it, when much exertion would be inconvenient, 
if not unsuitable : — when we are thus circumstanced, 
how needful it is for the religiously-visited mind to la- 
bour after a state not only of content, but of gratitude ; 
and in the very depth of sincerity, on any contempla- 
tion of a change, to say, " O Lord, I beseech thee, if 
thy presence go not with me, carry me not hence.'' 
Oh ! the many ways there are by which we may be 
betrayed from a state of humility and reverence of 
mind, and drawn out of the land of Goshen, the spot 



EXTRACTS OP LETTERS, 75 

appointed for the children of promise, into the land of 
Egyptian captivity, where confusion and darkness pre- 
vail, a darkness which may be felt. My heart, I think, 
in measure, travails ( for thy preservation out of those 
things that lift up the mind, prompting to aspire after 
great things; and unfitting, disqualifying, to sit, in a 
lowly posture, at the feet of Jesus, the holy example of 
obedience and self-denial. 

With me it is a very tender thing for any visited 
mind to leave a situation, in which the blessing has not 
been withheld, inwardly and outwardly. It is, I think, 
a ready way for the ungrateful receiver to experience 
a withering as to the divine life, and often lamentable 
miscarriage as to the outward. 

Oh ! the safety, the unspeakable advantage of keep- 
ing heaven uppermost, and the earth undermost. May 
this never be unhappily reversed in me, or any, for 
whose welfare I am particularly concerned. 

1816. — 9 mo. 19. I hope, with moderate industry 
and prudent care, you will be permitted, if your days 
are prolonged, to continue making some additions to 
your property ; thereby enlarging your sphere of use- 
fulness, as well as increasing your comfort. Much rich- 
es I do not covet for you : they are not necessary for 
our sweetest enjoyments. Supineness and inattention 
are productive of very little good : but moderate appli- 
cation, in a reliance on the blessing of Providence upon 
our humble and upright endeavours, adds much to our 
comfort, keeping our faculties bright, and even, I be- 
lieve, the more susceptible of good. I wish your com- 
fort, and that you may rightly appreciate the time and 
opportunity put into your hands, wisely applying your 
attention between spiritual and temporal things. I 
had written dividing, but I drew the pen over it, think- 
ing the expression exceptionable : because I believe 
we may be favoured to have our minds so preserved as 
to maintain an undivided preference for that which is 



76 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

best of all, (though necessarily engaged, and rightly so, 
in the concerns of this life,) and to feel that we have 
indeed a connection with ever and ever, whilst we 
are conversant with the vicissitudes of an earthly pil- 
grimage. 

1816. — 12 mo. 28. It is a very interesting and mo- 
mentous time for you ; and I suppose you hardly ever 
had more occasion for best wisdom to direct vour deli- 
berations, that all may be done in sweetness, harmony, 
and love, as well as with wisdom and a sound mind. 
I desire your preservation and ours on every hand, that 
true happiness and comfort may be your peaceful por- 
tion and ours, and, in the end, your and our enriching 
crown. I believe, in order for this, it is needful to 
dwell very low, where the right discernment is given ; 
and the feeling known, whereby a capacity to distin- 
guish is attained, and preservation witnessed. 

As you desire in simplicity so to move as you believe 
will be the readiest way to solid peace, I hope and be- 
lieve that a blessing will attend you. When the mind 
is preserved in a watchful care to do right, and is fear- 
ful of wounding its own solid peace, 1 believe that, al- 
though many perplexities may be permitted to attend 
the path which we tread, yet He who sees us and 
knows our thoughts, and who, as a Father pitieth his 
children, pitieth those that fear Him, will remember us 
in an accepted time, and be as a hiding-place from the 
storm. So that it is good to trust in Him at all times, 
and to endeavour to walk, as we believe, considering 
our respective circumstances, will be acceptable in his 
holy sight. 

My desire is, that you may study moderation in your 
pursuit of business; not stretching your arms very 
wide ; endeavouring to carry a snug sail, as the safest 
in stormy weather ; not hazarding the peace and com- 
posure, the solid happiness, of your minds, for any spe- 
cious and glittering, but uncertain and dangerous pros- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTER. 



77 



pects. Be content with what you can, through favour, 
compass, and compass with satisfaction. 

1817. — 3 mo. 20. A tender sensibility, and a dispo- 
sition raised in the mind to crave and press after that 
which can be depended on as substantial, sustaining 
food, is very precious. It introduces into the exercise 
of that faith which becomes, from time to time, the 
Christian's victory, and, through heavenly goodness, his 
eventual triumph. " This is the victory that overcom- 
eth the world, even your faith." 

My object seems to be to express a desire that thou 
mayst indeed be preserved in a state of humble depen- 
dence on the divine arm of Omnipotence; not seeldng 
or desiring great attainments ; but preservation near to 
that which has visited, believing that in that are hid 
the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, ready to be 
handed forth according to the good will and pleasure 
of Him who doeth all things well. Mayst thou live in 
a state of watchfulness for the unfoldings of heavenly 
counsel, as mercifully, from time to time, and at any 
time, vouchsafed; desiring also to increase in subjec- 
tion of the will, and in well-timed obedience. To the 
obedient mind, I believe, the unfoldings of heavenly 
counsel are vouchsafed, in a way and time suited to our 
condition. 

Considering how supremely needful it is for the reli- 
giously visited mind to attend to its own peculiar exer- 
cise, I have felt solicitous that nothing, however spe- 
cious, might involve thee in unprofitable speculation. 
This does not go to the prevention of the exercise of 
our mental faculties, as rational creatures; but to 
the exciting of great watchfulness and care, to dis- 
tinguish what, in our mental pursuits, makes for peace, 
and what does not. There is a precious saying; 
"As many as are baptized into Christ, have put on 
Christ." It is a great favour to have, in any mea- 
sure, put him on ; and greatly, I believe, will it tend 



78 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

to our safety, to be pretty sure that we do not put 
Him, the beloved of souls, off, and clothe ourselves 
with something else, in any of our pursuits, even 
those which have a religious or spiritual semblance. 

1818. — 11 mo. 10. Probably some of those having 
the care of youth, and heads of families, among whom 
I include myself, have not been enough concerned to 
watch theopenings of right capacity in themselves to con- 
vey, and the openings of right capacity in the youth to 
receive, lively instruction ; and it appears to me, that 
this watchfulness for the opening is the thing wanted 
among us. It is, 1 believe, a humbling, heart work, 
and would greatly promote the growth "both of guar- 
dians and their charge. 

t -Amidst the contemplation of the subject of reli- 
gious instruction, I have remembered with some com- 
fort, those expressions of our blessed Lord to his follow- 
ers : M I have many things to say unto you, but ve can- 
not bear them now f and I think it certainly requires 
care, how we press religious truths too far bevond the 
religious capacity of young people : perhaps not posses- 
sing the essential preparation for the reception of diffuse 
religious instruction, a resignation of the mind to bear 
the cross. To excite a willingness to bear the cross, 
with an eye to the crown, 1 consider a first principle in 
Christian education. If I am not mistaken, it has often 
been inculcated as a sound principle, not to puzzle our- 
selves too much to comprehend doctrinal passages of 
Scripture ; but to leave them to be opened to our un- 
derstandings, if needful, in the due and acceptable 
time. 

I think, my dear friend, though I have said so 



much, (I fear too much for me,) I should scarcelv be 
satisfied without now suggesting one idea tbat has often 
presented, respecting the instruction of our young peo- 
ple: viz. I fear the public recommendation of anv spe- 
cific plan, for obvious reasons : but w^hen one indivi- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 79 

dual, or more, see their way to set about it, within 
their own sphere of action, I think it may be useful and 
safe ; because this may be continued and prosecuted, 
as far and as long as the oil flows : and when it ceases, 
procedure may be dropped, or contracted, as freedom 
warrants. And if the blessing is on it, we may safely 
trust that it wili be productive of benefit, and that the 
example will be influential, and perhaps widely so. 
This latter remark may, in degree, apply also to press- 
ing the reading of Friends' writings. A thirst for good 
will naturally lead to this. To excite this thirst, then, 
seems the first object. To a mind not thirsty, Friends' 
writings are, I believe, often very dull and insipid : to 
a mind in which the thirst is excited, they are, indeed, 
as a brook by the way ; very precious, very sweet, 
very reviving. 

Leaving this, shall I mention without wearying thee, 
that it has lately occurred to me, that an advantage 
might be derived from pleading our belief in the Divine 
omnipresence, as one reason of our silent waiting in our 
meetings, and at other times : namely, because we be- 
lieve that He is ever near us ; that He is ever over us, 
round about us ; and because in Him we live, and move, 
and have our being ? And although we are not at all 
times permitted to be sensible of his presence, yet 
whenever it pleases Him, he can make us perceive it, 
as in the twinkling of an eye, and comfort us with his 
light and love. And believing that this perception of 
his love is our greatest good, and not at all at our com- 
mand, we find it our duty and our interest, knowing 
that He is ever nigh at hand, to wait his time and plea- 
sure for making us sensible of it. And when He is 
pleased to bless us, and to bow our minds, and the fa- 
culties of the soul, in reverence and prostration, under 
a sense of his goodness, and of our absolute need of Him 
and dependence upon Him, then we believe is perform- 
ed in us, and by us, that worship which is acceptable 
unto Him. "God is a Spirit, and they that worship 

H 



80 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth." And in 
order that this worship may, from time to time, be per- 
formed in the newness of life, it must he in fresh ability, 
which He giveth, or rather lendeth ; for He does not 
bestow it as an abiding capacity, to be exercised in our 
will and time ; but it must be, from time to time, hum- 
bly and patiently waited for. Would it not be a likely 
thing to impress this view of the Omnipresence on the 
minds of young people, as most precious and consolatory, 
and as that which should inspire us with awe, and re- 
verence, and abasedness on one hand, and with anima- 
tion and confidence on the other. 

1818. — 11 mo. 25. My sincere desire is, that the 
circumstances which have occurred may be sanctified 
to you ; that the blessing of Providence may be over 
you, and round about you; and that the blessings of 
love, harmony, and peace, on a right and pure founda- 
tion, may be your enriching experience. I feel for your 
prosperity on a right ground so sincerely, that I return 
again to that subject. Keep low and humble, and at- 
tentive to best instruction in the secret of your own 
minds ; and then, I hope, preservation will be vouchsaf- 
ed to you. Do not crave great things. Remember the 
saying of a worthy character : " I desire not riches, but 
to owe nothing." Thou knovvest I like commendable 
industry. The sluggard cannot reasonably expect to 
prosper ; but then our eye, and the dependence of our 
minds, should be to the Lord, and to his blessing upon 
our honest, upright, and moderately circumscribed en- 
deavours. In any material and important movement, 
consult us with much openness and unreserved freedom, 
as we desire thv preservation on everv hand. I believe 
all right situations have their attendant probations; 
and however we may move, we must not expect to be 
without them. Trials bring weight ; and a weighty 
mind is a great blessing. 

It is a matter of sincere regret that — — has so much 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 81 

travelling. I am well aware of its unsettling and in- 
jurious tendency, as it respects the humble, tender, 
well-regulated state of the mind of almost any Friend. 

1819. — 1 mo. 23. I have entertained some fear, 
lest 1 had not properly expressed my own views and 
wishes, on some part of the subjects touched upon in 
my communication of the 11th month;* particularly 
that of encouraging young persons to read the writings 
of our early Friends. Perhaps no one wishes more sin- 
cerely than myself, to see this practice prevail among 
our young Friends, as well as those more advanced. It 
is particularly cordial to me to see young people so en- 
gaged; and I desire it may be encouraged in every 
proper way. There are many ways, doubtless, of do- 
ing this ; and I feel anxious that nothing which has es- 
caped my pen may discourage any honest and upright 
endeavour to promote this object. Many of the writ- 
ings of our worthy predecessors, with some of those of 
later date, I esteem an invaluable treasure to the So- 
ciety, not to say to the world ; and my desire is, that 
they may be duly appreciated by all ranks amongst 
us. 

I am fully aware that a careful parent or guardian 
may very suitably recommend or use Friends' writings, 
as one means, and a very likely means, to excite and 
increase the thirst here spoken of; and perhaps, just 
in this place, I may not improperly tell thee, that this 
morning, just when I was thinking to address thee, I 
very unexpectedly cast my eye on a few lines, which I 
sometime ago penned, and which I had quite forgotten, 
to the following import : they may seem somewhat il- 
lustrative of my view of this matter. " If the mind is 
directed to that which is good, becoming tender in the 



* See the last preceding Letter but one, page 79. 



82 EXTRACTS OP LETTERS. 

fear of the Lord, expecting all good from Him as the 
everlasting fountain of happiness, peace, and comfort, 
there is a good foundation laid for receiving the 
openings of Truth, either immediately by the Spirit, or 
fis » ^^ ^ lhG Scri P tures ' ministry, or good 

1819.— 9 mo. 18. We have often cause for thank- 
iuJness, when we can remember any past opportunity 
with sweetness and satisfaction in the retrospect. This 
has been the case with respect to thy late visit to us. 
It leit me tenderly interested about thee ; so much so, 
that I seemed as if I might not do safely, if I omitted 
telling thee so. I think I am not mistaken in believing 
that thy mind often possesses a precious sensibility of 
desire after good,— after peace and substantial hap- 
piness. And oh ! the longing that I have felt that no- 
thing may be permitted to quench this desire in thy 
heart ; but rather that it may grow and increase, until 
nothing, nothing m this world, may bear any compari- 
son with it in thy estimation. Endeavour, I beseech 
thee, to keep thy mind inward unto the Lord. Lean 
upon Him, trust in Him, and He will sustain thee in the 
humbling path of self-denial and lowly-mindedne«s I 
do not mean a voluntary humility ; but that humility 
which is induced by a watchful, well-timed obedience 
to the secret manifestations of the divine will. This 
will humble the creature ; but, blessed be his name, it 
leads into, and preserves in, a capacity to receive the 
further and further manifestations of "his Will, of his 
Truth, of his Light, of his Love, even as He knows we 
can bear it, and as, in his wisdom, He sees meet to un- 
fold them to us. But, oh ! the great loss which is sus- 
tained, 1 believe, through the want of following on to 
know Him, in the only way in which we can attain to 
the knowledge of Him, the way of Faith ; which word 
implies not only belief in, but reliance and dependence 
upon Him. And though this may sometimes be found 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 



83 



a tribulated path, I believe it is the path to the king- 
dom of heaven — the kingdom of peace and joy ; begun, 
and revealed in degree, I believe, to the redeemed mind 
even in this life, and consummated in that which is to 
come. 

When I consider where thou art placed, the large 
meeting thou belongest to ; — how desirable it appears 
to me, that thou shouldst make an early and full sur- 
render. Keep in the quiet : keep in sweet innocence. 
Let peace be the primary object ; and then other things 
rightly permitted and dispensed, will be enjoyed with 
humilitv and thankfulness. 

What would sincere dedication and submission in a 
few individuals, do in your large meeting. How would 
example strengthen and encourage others to come for- 
ward, who are halting between two opinions; and 
whilst they hesitate, weakness besets, and probably in- 
creases : whereas, if faithfulness were yielded to the 
manifestations of Truth in the mind, how would the di- 
vine arm support and sustain ; how would strength be 
afforded to walk steadily forward, perhaps with feeble 
and diffident, but with safe and peaceful steps. Oh ! 
the exceeding preciousness of early dedication, of early 
submitting the creaturely will to the discoveries of duty* 
Inasmuch as the Almighty is the fountain of happiness, 
the more we look to Him for direction and safe guidance, 
the more likely we are to arrive at this fountain ; and, 
I believe, in condescending loving-kindness, He is deal- 
ing with those who early make Him their choice. I 
believe He gives them to experience his fatherly care 
over them ; and every now and then gives them some 
proof that it is well for them that they have trusted in 
Him. 

I do not wish to enlarge : but I want to encourage 
thee to be of those who sit alone, and keep silence ; 
bearing the yoke, that precious yoke, which, through 
divine goodness, keeps down in us those dispositions and 

h * 



84 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

propensities, which, if not kept under, will retard or 
prevent the growth of the plant of renown, in that dig. 
nity and stature which it otherwise would attain, and 
which should outgrow and overgrow every thing else 



. ~ ! w as not sure whether the cause [of reli- 
gion] might not, in some degree, suffer from my re- 
marks respecting the intimations of Truth to the mind 
about outward concerns. Perhaps an apprehension of 
the right thing suffering by our friend's over-rating 
some of his impressions, at the same time that he is ma- 
naging so poorly, might drive me too far in expression 
on the opposite side. Exceedingly precious, when 
vouchsafed, do I esteem the guidance of a gracious Pro- 
vidence respecting outward things. But I think I have 
noticed that some of those whom I have loved, esteem- 

,:?■<■ honoured > have been very cautious of speaking 
ot this favour, as it respected themselves ; probably con- 
sidering it as something that is better known and felt, 
than talked about ; and scarcely enough given them as 
their own, to be made so free with :— being, in order to 
keep the creature humble, low, fearful, dependent, and 
in self-abasement, so gently and faintly, though intelligi- 
bly marked and defined to themselves, as may serve to 
preserve them walking by faith, and not by strong 
sight. Should a suitable opportunity occur, perhaps 
thou wilt mention a few words expressive of my sense 
of the matter. I should not like to hurt the cause, nor 
wound our friend's mind to his disadvantage. I trust I 
may thankfully say, that I am a humble believer in the 
condescension, goodness, and mercy of our heavenly 
father to his dependent children, both respecting their 
outward and inward condition and circumstances. 

1 wish both you and we may be favoured, at 

seasons, with the renewings of best ability to desire for 
all the youth, most particularly the objects of our care 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 



85 



that the divine fear may be richly placed in their 
hearts, as the most effectual way and means for them 
to inherit every blessing consistent with the Heavenly 
Father's will for them to enjoy ; and as the blessed pre- 
servation from the many evils which abound in the 
world, and which court their affection. 



( 96) 



CHAP. VII. 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS WRITTEN FROM 1820 TO 

1823. 

^ 1820.— 3 mo. 9. It is not pleasant to me, that thv 
kind and acceptable letter of last month should have 
remained so long unacknowledged. I believe it can 
be attributed to no cause more justly, than to the 
poverty of my own mind ; though I am aware, that 
the expression of this is not likely to make thee rich. 
However, it behoves us to endure with patience our 
allotment, and the various changes which are permit- 
ted ; and happy is it, if our poverty be not the con- 
sequence of our own indolence, inattention, or disobe- 
dience. My own health is very favourably continued : 
but I very often remember the flight of time, and that 
many, very many sands have escaped from the glass. 
1 his is a chequered and very uncertain scene: how 
happy for those, who under all, and through all, are 
permitted often to cast anchor ; and feelingly to ac- 
knowledge, that the Lord is good, worthy toVe waited 
for, served, honoured, and obeyed, under all circum- 
stances, and in all conditions. 

1821.— 12 mo. 15. Oh ! the importance, as 1 view 
the subject, of Friends keeping in the unity, out of de- 
putations, in the self-denial, (which includes a willing- 
ness to suffer,) in the littleness and abasement, rather 
than that any of Truth's testimonies should fall to the 
ground. 

1 think I never saw the necessity and value of 
Friends in this nation being a compact"undivided bodv. 
more than now ; that its conduct may speak, not a con- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 



87 



fused, but intelligible and inviting language to those 
who are seeking rest for the sole of their feet. 

I consider it may have been a great favour to our 
Society to have been disqualified, as the criminal law 
stands, from serving on juries ; as well as, I think it is, 
from accepting places of profit under government, in 
the present mixed state of things. And I suppose we 
neither of us apprehend that Friends, as a religious 
body, are less in danger from the spirit of the world 
and its friendship, than they were a century ago. 

1822.-— 7 mo. 3.* Though much attended with men- 
tal poverty, I seem not easy to omit saluting you with 
a few lines expressive of endeared affection, and of a 
hope, that amidst the various ways in which the cause 
of Truth may, under the divine blessing, be acceptably 
promoted, that in which you are now engaged may 
be one. And under present feeling, I seem as if I 
might say, it matters little whether the flock visited be 
smaller or greater, or whether what we have to com- 
municate be little or much, if the great and gracious 
Shepherd condescend to own the engagement "with the 
animating influence of his love. 

" A little with the blessing is a deal ; 
Witness the widow's oil, the widow's meal." 

I think I can say my heart dearly salutes you, and 
craves your preservation in the meekness, innocence, 
and simplicity of the Gospel. I, if capable of seeing 
any thing, think there is great beauty and precious 
safety, in those who come in amongst us, keeping 
enough to the measure of their own gift and experi- 
ence ; endeavouring daily, as it may consist with the 



* This letter was written to some of his friends, when on a visit, 
by appointment of the Meeting for Sufferings, to the Friends of 
Pyrmont and Minden. 



88 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

divine will, to know an increase therein, but not out- 
stepping their guide. Oh! what sympathy is called for. 
on behalf of sincere and tender minds, circumstanced 
as this little flock is, in such a country. May your visit 
tend to strengthen in a lowly, humble, quiet, inward de- 
pendence on the increase of the gift, individually re- 
ceived, as the likely way for them to be a strength to 
one another. 

James Parnel says to Stephen Crisp, " Be not hasty 
to know any thing beyond thy measure ;" and really 
there does seem something very precious in this, provi- 
ded the measure be fully kept up to ; and we are pre- 
served out of all supineness, lethargy, and inattention. 
Do remember as a poor brother, that wishes to make 
some humble advancement in solid experience of that 
good, which in a day of trial will be more to us than all 
the world. However appearances may be against it, 
I have been in 20 poor a spot myself, as to seem almost 
unfit to meddle with sacred things, bevond mv own 
breast ; yet you see I venture — I hope 1 humbly ven- 
ture. 

1822. — 7 mo. 3. What a scale of usefulness do 



and move on, compared with some of us : but then 

I remember, that no one in sincerity of love and at- 
tachment to the cause, shall even shut a door in the 
house for nought, And there is great sweetness, I be- 
lieve, often experienced in the humbler and more re- 
tired walks in the Master's vinevard ; so that all de- 
pends, may we not say, on endeavouring to be just 
what we should be, whether it be foot or hand, or only 
as a finger on the hand. 

1822. — 10 ?no. 22. "What a beautiful society, I be- 
lieve the Society of Friends would be, if all were dili- 
gent to improve the talents bestowed upon them ; pres- 
sing dailv towards the mark of our calling ; not resting 
contented in any state, known and felt to be imperfect ; 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 89 

and thereby encouraging others to be easy and satisfied 
in a state of imperfection. I have of late thought, that 
however assailed with weakness and trial, it will not 
do to rest herein ; but using the strength afforded, be it 
little or much, wage war with every thing which we 
feel impeding our journey to a state of acceptance, 
wherein there is no condemnation. 

1822. — 10 mo. 25. I know, dear friend, that hu- 
man nature is liable to be much tossed, and tried, and 
perplexed, sometimes with looking back, and sometimes 
with looking forward ; but our safety, I think, very 
much lies in seeking after quietness and resignation, 
faithfully and in simplicity endeavouring, in our out- 
ward employments, to discharge the duty of one day at 
a time, without being over anxious ; but quietly trust- 
ing in the Lord for ability to get through the duty of 
one day after another, as they come in succession ; be- 
cause He knows exactly our situation and circumstan- 
ces ; and how availingly to pity us and to care for us in 
all our temptations and besetments, so that there is 
great advantage indeed in quietly looking to Him for 
succour. Be sure, do not look for or desire great 
things, either inwardly or outwardly; but desire, above 
all things, to be kept in humility and fear, that so thy 
steppings may be safe and sure : in them is sweet pre- 
servation. I believe this is the state in which we are 
at times favoured to see a little light upon our path : 
and I desire thee to be thankful for every degree of 
true light, be it ever so small : for we have nothing 
truly good at our own command. 

1822. — 12 mo. 14. It has often occurred to my 
mind, that events of this interesting nature [the loss of 
our near and tender connexions] frequently furnish 
fresh occasion, calmly and deeply to ponder what are 
the next steps for the nearly-connected survivors to 
take ; a little light upon the path of the bereaved, at 



90 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS, 



such seasons, is exceedingly to be prized, and if duly 
appreciated, is, I believe likely, under a sense of loss 
and stripping, to increase our dependence on the 
guidance, protection, and sustaining arm of heavenly 
Goodness. 

1822. — 12 mo. 21. The removal of our venerable 
elder William Tuke, will, I think, be felt interesting to 
many; as of a standard-bearer in our camp. I feel 
desirous that his decease may have a tendency to quick- 
en and animate many, to stand noblv for the cause he 
was concerned to advocate ; not for "the establishing of 
their own views, but the advancement of true piety, 
holiness, and humility, and thereby the glory of our 
heavenly Father. Tbelieve it would be acceptable to 
Him, that as one faithful soldier is removed, others 
should the more nearly and diligently unite, that there 
be no breach in our ranks : but "that we might, notwith- 
standing, press forward and advance, as a well-ordered 
army, under the invincible captain. It feels, as I write, 
precious to me to believe, that what we sometimes de- 
nominate " the cause" is unchangeably good, and wor- 
thy to be espoused, being the promotionof the glory of 
God, in the happiness and salvation of man. And I am 
a little cheered in the hope, although many, and some 
very pleasant persons, are too much at ease^ very much 
short of a state of dedication and resignation, and of 
perfect obedience, yet that the call will continue so 
availingly to go forth, that many will be aroused, and 
induced to come forward with increased zeal and fer- 
vency of spirit, clothed with humility as a garment; 
and that our society will yet be beautiful and lovely, an 
ornament and a praise. 

1822. — 12 mo. 29. May we be preserved so hum- 
ble, so lowly, so in the spirit of gospel self-denial, as be- 
comes the devoted followers of Christ; and as would 
enable beholders to discover in us the genuine features 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 91 

of his flock. I hope I hate formality for formality's 
sake ; but when Friends have had the privilege of be- 
ing trained and accustomed to a plain, exemplary dress, 
I am concerned that those I love may use great cau- 
tion, ere they depart from it. 

My apprehension is, that the present time is a dan- 
gerous one to Friends. They are courted and smiled 
upon by the world ; and, without very great caution, 
we are liable, in our civil and religious intercourse 
with them, to be drawn away from that weightiness of 
spirit, wherein true religious advancement, I believe, 
is known. The true, real, and genuine ground, upon 
which Friends have been mercifully brought, I believe 
to be exceedingly precious ; and our safety and useful- 
ness to others much depend on our keeping upon it, 
that we may be strengthened availingly by our exam- 
ple to invite others on to it, instead of quitting it to go 
on to theirs. 

It becomes truly religious characters not to run with 
the changeable spirit of the times. We may maintain 
a care respecting this, and yet have humble views of 
ourselves, not thinking ourselves better than others, 
nor piquing ourselves on any peculiarity ; but in watch- 
fulness and fear, endeavouring not to quit our ranks, 
or give occasion by our example to any fellow-soldier to 
desert his. 

1823. — 4 mo. In all the circumstances and changes 
which we have to experience, what a favour it seems 
to be, to be strengthened to stay our minds upon the 
Lord, and to feel at times a sensible, refreshing calm, 
in which we can rejoice with thankfulness, though with 
fear, knowing how little it is in our power to command, 
or preserve, or retain this feeling ; but yet it is very 
sweet now and then to get a little portion of it. It is 
something to recur to, and is indeed as a brook by the 
way, enabling to hold up the head ; and thus, in low, 

i 



92 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

succeeding seasons, how encouraging it is to remember 
that there is this precious state to be at times known. 
How does it furnish occasion still to trust on, and not 
cast away our confidence ; but to believe that although 
our lot may be in poverty of spirit, yet that the gra- 
cious Shepherd, whose goodness and mercy are un- 
bounded, will never leave nor forsake us, as we endea- 
vour to trust in Him. So that however tossed, or how- 
ever beset with trying things, let us often, very often, 
center down in humble quietness, and calm dependence 
on the Lord ; and then, 1 believe, he will sustain and 
preserve us. 

1823. — 10 mo. 18. It has been a subject of very 
considerable anxiety, that we might be comfortably 
supplied with a companion gifted with the requisites 
to contribute to soothe and solace our declining davs. 
which I consider of very great consequence ; that the 
mind may be sweetly at liberty to husband and im- 
prove the supplies of good mercifully vouchsafed day 
after dav, so that there may be a little verdure, even 
in advanced age. In adverting to the changes we have 
experienced within the last year or two, how apt is the 
mind to dwell on the privations, when we might more 
profitably be clothed with gratitude and humility, in a 
sense of the many privileges vouchsafed, and continued, 
and renewed. 

May Friends of every class be encouraged to come 
up to the mark assigned them, in firmness and humility, 
two very requisite companions to each other in the 
Christian character ; I might have added, and wisdom. 
1 do believe that the want of these, and of more quiet- 
ness and inward attention, has tended to lay waste the 
minds of very many in our favoured society ; intended 
in divine wisdom and mercy, as I sometimes think, to 
have been a compact, separated body, endowed with 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 93 

very precious gifts and favours. If there is too little of 
a capacity for inviting others, to be seen in many- 
places, there are many amongst us who desire the 
prosperity of Truth. And oh ! that none of us may 
shrink from baptism : for may this not be called the 
only way for truly dignified and useful members to be 
produced in the church ? 



( 94 ) 



CHAP. VIII. 

EXTRACTS OF LETTERS WRITTEN IV THE YEARS 

1824 AND 1825. " 

1824,-1 mo. 1. Thy allusion to the experience of 
a winter season, might meet a similar statement from 
us and I doubt not. from many more .; and seein- this 
feeling and allotment are in the permission of a wfsdom 
which cannot err I desire we may accept them with 
thankfulness, and be enabled wisely to improve from 
them, quickening our diligence in the ereat and highly 
important engagement of watchfulness and deen = in- 
ward retirement of mind, before Him who knows ex- 
actly al our wants, and how and when to relieve them 
to our lasting advantage. Under a feeling of inward 
poverty and want, of late known and felt. I have 
thought it exceedingly desirable to labour after inward 
quiet and attention, that the strength mav be rightiv 
felt to be renewed, and our religion! experience, in the 
goodness and mercy of Israel's Shepherd, to be enlarged. 
Hereby the ground- work of true patience would be 
laid, and the way prepared for that which is so much 
wanted among us: namely, for our becoming more a 
weighty humble, watchful, self-denying people, spirit- 
ually intelligent, and diligent in submitfin/to divine 
requirmgs, advancing from step to step on toe ladder 
which reaches from earth to heaven. May greenness 
adorn our evening, and divine love and mercv be our 
eternal crown of rejoicing. 

,, lS24 — 3 ™ - 15 - °h the simplicity that I think 
there is in the Truth ! Oh the simplicity of the Gos- 
pel, and of an inward, attentive, lowly waiting, for the 
renewed revelations of it ! How can this departure 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 95 

from it [in America] have been occasioned ? What a 
favour, if those who have been in any degree jostled off 
the foundation, may be in mercy brought back, and 
have to declare to others, that, in a cloudy time, they 
had missed their way, but are now, in humility and 
meekness, brought back to the quiet habitation, the 
place of rest and safety, where I believe the filial fear 
thou mentionest, is happily known and lived in. I hope 
our dear friends now among them will be graciously 
protected ; furnished with the needful supply of wisdom 
and strength, and often have to lie down sweetly beside 
the still waters. Oh ! what a favour we can conceive 
this to be, to the poor, exercised, and oft-tribulated ser- 
vants. Recurring again to the occasions of sorrow, I 
seem to want to add, how strange it is that any who 
love the Truth in sincerity, should not dread the bane- 
ful consequences of breaking the unity — the unity of 
the Spirit, in the bond of peace. 

If I have any good desires, I think one of them is, 
that the ministry may be increasingly weighty among 
us. Our dear friends in that station are much to be 
felt for, and I wish that we may be favoured with in- 
creased qualification to contribute to their help and 
comfort. How does the desire arise, that there may be 
quite as much in weight as measure. It is a very in- 
teresting time we live in ; and I think we are a singu- 
larly-appointed people. How desirable is it, that we 
may know our place, and keep it — a waiting, solid, self- 
denying people. Greatly favoured we have been ; and 
we have reason to believe, shall be, if we keep to our 
principles — I might say, to our principle ; the divine 
light, life, and power, revealed in the soul. Believing 
in this with steadfastness, I believe we should often 
have to be very poor, and sit very low. But I fear to 
say much on this important and weighty subject. Be- 
fore I quite quit it, perhaps I may as well say, that I 
have (of late particularly) thought on the benefit and 

i * 



96 EXTRACTS OP LETTERS. 



excellence of quietness and retiredness of mind ; and the 
want of it in our religious and favoured Society, as well 
as in the world at large. If it were possible' to make 
friends sufficiently in love with it, what blessed effects 
might be hoped for from it. 

, * 824 T~ m0% 13 ' Iama beli ever in that represen- 
tation of George Dillwyn's. respecting important deli- 
berations and discussions in meetings for discipline, some- 
what on this wise : that, when Friends are honestly 
sincerely, and piously, engaged in delivering their re- 
spective views with becoming condescension and feel- 
ing for each other, and the subject is drawing to a point, 
there is sometimes known a seal on the top of it, which 
bespeaks the conclusion to be owned. What a favour 

this! en ° 0Uragement iS [t ' When Friends can P^ceive 

1824.— 7 mo. 30. I notice thy information respect- 
ing our dear friend's improvement in her health. It is 
indeed a favour, when humility clothes the poor instru- 
ments, as a garment from head to foot : indeed, what 
virtue is like it for value? It becomes the man wifh 

tt h™"\rl * 1S TS 6 aS needful for him that has 
he two or the five. What are the most gifted without 

it, but poor, mistaken creatures, forgetful that in a 

moment all qualification for profit or service maybe 

withheld and suspended, if not entirely withdrawn ? 

_ 1824—11 mo. 12. It is not likely that the expres- 
sion of my poverty ghou]d make thee rfch l P 

rather endeavour to profit by every dispensation, that 
1 may be favoured to know my attention quickened, and 
my feet more and more established in the faith, and 
hope, and patience of the Lord's children 

1 am obliged for the various items of interesting in- 
telhgence contained in thy letter. May we who move 
in comparatively narrow spheres, be enabled to pray 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 97 

for the preservation and protection of the sincere and 
upright-hearted under every allotment, and among all 
the vicissitudes permitted to occur. How do I desire 
that the sincere-hearted in America may be kept in the 
patient, steady pursuit of purity and holiness, and know 
from season to season the discovery of the brook by the 
way. enabling to hold up the head, and to trust on. 

What a people should we be, if we all moved on, in 
the condescendingly-appointed order, desiring to be nei- 
ther greater nor less, than divine wisdom intendeth us 
to be. Then surely would peace be our portion, and 
the glory be ascribed to the blessed and holy Head ; 
and we be living as dear children of the same heavenly- 
minded family, abounding, according to the divine will, 
in the fruits of the Spirit, 

1824. — 12 mo. 8. Within a very short space indeed, 
I have attended to the silent grave the remains of two 
okLacquaintances, respecting whom it may now be said, 
as by and by of us, the place that has known them, 
will know them no more. Not that 1 think it desirable 
that the dropping off of those, with whom we have 
been used to converse, should be allowed unprofitably 
to depress, but to quicken our attention to the solemn 
subject of the uncertainty of time, and of all temporal 
things : it is indeed an awfully-serious subject ; and 
worthy of our daily and hourly meditation. Our Quar- 
terly Meeting is again approaching : may it be a time 
of obtaining a little increase of strength, and of encou- 
ragement to walk in the path of faith, and humble con- 
fidence in the divine arm of Power, 

1S25. — 4 mo. 8. My mind, one day this week, was, 
I think 1 may say, sweetly comforted in the contem- 
plation of the blessedness of that state, wdiich is preserv- 
ed so low, so little, and humble and feelingly depen- 
dent, as to be thankful for even a morsel of heavenly 



98 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 

bread, and even a small portion of that living water 
which sustains the traveller in the path of faith ; and 
this was accompanied with gladness, that, from the 
morning of our day as a religious society, it was given 
forth as the sense of Friends, respecting the Scriptures, 
that whatsoever doctrine is contrary unto their testi- 
mony, may therefore justly be rejected as false ! It is 
very pleasant to me, that there is extant part of a let- 
ter from William Savery, of America, w T ritten at the 
time of the trouble occasioned by H. B.'s dissent from 
Friends, to a friend in London ; a few lines of which I 
incline to transcribe, though 1 should not suppose they 
are new to thee ; viz. " The longer I live, the more 
unshaken confidence 1 think I obtain, that the doc- 
trines laid down by Robert Barclay and our first friends, 
founded upon the New Testament, and still maintain- 
ed by the body of Society at large, are invulnerable to 
the efforts of vain philosophy, sophistry, and curious 
speculation, so long as we retain our belief in that most 
excellent of all books; and I am of the mind, that 
all such as depart from that foundation, will wither and 
be confounded." 

1825. — 4 mo. 23. Since our last friendly conversa- 
tion, I have felt much interested in the comfort of thy 
declining years. Thou hast often mentioned to me thy 
uncomfortable feelings and prospects, respecting thy- 
self and human nature. I believe, much of them is oc- 
casioned by thy not endeavouring to lay hold of the 
mercy of God, offered to his creature man, through the 
Spirit of Christ in the soul ; because I think, and hearti- 
ly believe, that by resorting to that, we are often per- 
mitted to feel our minds, through its blessed influence, 
brought into a state of resignation to the dispensations 
of Providence, and into a belief that all He does, how- 
ever inscrutable to our limited and finite comprehen- 
sion, is in perfect wisdom ; and that his power is suffi- 



EXTRACTS OF LETTERS. 99 

cient to turn every thing that He suffers to befal us, to 
a good account in the end, agreeably to the apostle's 
testimony, " that all things work together for good, to 
them that love and fear God." 

As we reverently believe that the Almighty is a be- 
ing of infinite and adorable perfection in all his attri- 
butes, He stands in no need of any thing from us ; but 
we stand in need of every thing from Him. And we 
cannot rationally suppose any motive in Him by the 
creation of man, but the communication of happiness to 
his creature. And it is good to entertain the belief, that 
this divine goodwill, and gracious design to communi- 
cate happiness, is not of a transient nature, but con- 
stant and perpetual, in Him in whom it is said " there 
is no variableness nor shadow of turning." And I can- 
not for a moment entertain the idea that this Divine 
and Almighty Being, Who created man for happiness 
and immortality, is so little mindful of him, as, when he 
is come into the world, to leave him to shift for himself: 
a creature who, He well knows, has daily and hourly 
occasion for his providential care and fatherly protec- 
tion. Remember that interesting saying of our bles- 
sed Saviour, " the very hairs of your head are all num- 
bered," as emphatically descriptive of the tender no- 
tice and regard of the Most High towards his rational 
and immortal creatures. 

I am sincerely interested in thy comfort ; and 1 de- 
sire that the evening of thy days may be cheered by the 
enlivening persuasion, that thou canst not be from un- 
der the notice of Him, who is an omnipresent Spirit, and 
who is not only a God afar off, but also a God nigh at 
hand ; about our bed, and about our path, and who 
spieth out all our ways ; and, as David beautifully de- 
clares, "whose tender mercies are over all his works;" 
and that thus believing, thy sun may go down in bright- 
ness, and thy latter end be crowned with peace, the 
blessed presage of everlasting happiness. 



Books published by Thomas Kite, No. 64 Walnut St. 



Manuel of La Mere Agnes, or a Gift from an Abbess tp 
her Nuns, a Specimen of " La Religieuse parfaite et im- 
parfaite," of La Mere Agnes de St. Paul Arnauld, Abbess 
of Port Royal. By M. A. Schimmelpenninck. 

This work " may be safely recommended to the perusal of those, 
whether young or old, who are sincerely desirous to receive in- 
struction in the way of holiness." — The Friend. 

The Pleiad. A Series of Abridgments from seven dis- 
tinguished writers on the Evidences of Christianity. By 
Francis Wrangham, M. A. F. R. S. Archdeacon of Cleve- 
land. 

" We have examined, with much satisfaction, the contents of 
this rich little volume, and have no difficulty in recommending the 
purchase of it to our readers in general. For a very small sum, 
our young people may thus be furnished with a summary view of 
several of the best defences of Christianity and the Holy Scrip- 
tures — a Vade Mecum of unanswerable reasons " for the hope that 
is in them," always at hand for every exigency." — The Friend. 

Difficulties of Infidelity. By George Stanley Faber, 
Rector of Long-Newton. 

Piety Promoted ; in brief Biographical memorials, of 
some of the Religious Society of Friends, commonly called 
Quakers. The Eleventh Part. By Josiah Forster. 

A Journal of the Life and Religious Labours of Richard 
Jordan, a minister of the Gospel in the Society of Friends, 
late of Newton, in Gloucester county, New Jersey. 

Examples of Youthful Piety, principally intended for the 
Instruction of Young persons, by Thomas Evans. 

Memoir of Sarah Knight, wife of Thomas Knight, of 
Colchester, who died on the 28th of the fifth month, 1828. 

A memoir of Louisa Maw, daughter of Thomas and 
Lucy Maw, of Needham-Market, Suffolk, who died the 
16th of 3d month, 1828. 



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